If you’re planning to sell your home in 2025, now is the perfect time to start preparing. While it might feel like you’ve got plenty of time, a little advance planning can make a huge difference in your sale’s success. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, puts it:
“…now is the time to start thinking about what you need for your next home and then taking those steps to prepare to list…47 percent of sellers are taking longer than a month to get their home ready to sell, so starting early can mean more flexibility.”
Prepping early will allow you to take care of updates and repairs at a steady pace, so when you’re ready to list, your home is truly market-ready. Partnering with a skilled real estate agent from the start can help guide you toward the repairs and updates that will matter most for your Brookings, SD market.
Why an Early Start Is Essential
Getting your house into top condition can make a huge difference when it’s time to sell. From tackling essential repairs to decluttering and possibly even making a few value-adding updates, prepping early can make your home more attractive to buyers and potentially lead to a higher selling price.
When you begin early, you have the luxury of handling one project at a time. For example, taking on tasks like fixing a leaky faucet, refreshing your landscape, or repainting a room now means you can do the job right without the stress of an impending deadline. Waiting until the last minute could lead to rushing and potentially overlooking important tasks.
Realtor.com reminds us:
“There are some important repairs to make before selling a house, so don’t be in too much of a hurry to get your home listed…if you move too fast, buyers see right through the fact that you skipped important home renovations. And this…might end up costing you time and money.”
Key Areas to Focus On
Ready to start checking off that to-do list? Here are some of the most common updates and improvements sellers are focusing on today. Each of these can enhance your home’s value and help it stand out:
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Repairs and Maintenance: Think about fixing any persistent issues like leaks, broken fixtures, or cracked windows. Buyers notice these details, and fixing them upfront can leave a positive impression.
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Decluttering and Depersonalizing: Take time to clear out personal items and extra furniture. A cleaner, simpler look helps buyers envision their own lives in the space.
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Landscaping and Curb Appeal: Your yard and the exterior are the first things potential buyers see. Trimming bushes, adding fresh mulch, and ensuring your lawn looks neat can set the tone before they even walk in the door.
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Interior Touch-Ups: If there are rooms in your home that could benefit from a fresh coat of paint, small repairs, or a thorough cleaning, now’s the time to address them. Freshening up your interiors can give your home an updated, well-cared-for appearance.
While these improvements offer a general roadmap, only a knowledgeable local agent can provide insight into what Brookings buyers are specifically looking for. As Point Magazine points out:
“Not all renovations are created equal, and focusing on upgrades that offer the highest potential for increasing your home’s value is key.”
Why You Need a Local Real Estate Expert
Working with a local real estate expert gives you the competitive advantage. Your agent will understand which home features matter most to buyers in the Brookings, SD, area. For example, if homes with updated kitchens are selling fast, an agent might recommend small kitchen upgrades that won’t break the bank but will add appeal.
Beyond big-ticket items, a seasoned agent will know which small details can enhance your home’s appeal, such as adding a fresh coat of paint to your front door, updating your outdoor lighting, or re-sealing your driveway. These kinds of updates can give your home an inviting feel that will resonate with potential buyers and help it sell quickly and for a great price.
Bottom Line: Prep Early to Sell Successfully
Thinking about selling your home in the coming year? Don’t wait until the last minute. By starting now, you’ll have the time to make necessary improvements at your own pace, ensuring your house is in top condition when it hits the market.
If you’re not sure where to start or need advice on which updates will give you the most bang for your buck, reach out. Let’s connect and make sure your home’s ready for a successful sale in 2025!
Posted by Shane Andersen on
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