Don’t Wait! The Best Time to Prep Your Home for a 2025 Sale Is Now

If selling your house in 2025 is on your to-do list, it’s time to roll up those sleeves and start prepping. Sure, the new year may feel like it's miles away, but trust me—getting ahead of the game will make a world of difference. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, says:

“. . . now is the time to start thinking about what you need for your next home and then taking those steps to prepare to list . . . We have survey data that says 47 percent of sellers are taking longer than a month to get their home ready to sell, so getting them to start that process early can mean more flexibility.”

So, why wait? Prepping early gives you the breathing room to address updates, repairs, and any curveballs without the stress of racing against the clock. Plus, partnering with a savvy local agent from the get-go means you’ll know exactly where to focus your efforts (and dollars) for the best return.

Why It Pays to Start Early

To snag top dollar and sell your home fast, it needs to shine. That means tackling those projects you’ve been putting off and possibly even adding some value-boosting updates. The goal is to make your home irresistible to buyers when you’re ready to hit the market.

The earlier you start, the smoother things will go. Little by little, you can chip away at that to-do list—like fixing that annoying leaky faucet, freshening up the landscaping, or giving a room a new coat of paint. Waiting too long? You risk scrambling through everything at the last minute, which can leave you overwhelmed. And nobody needs that. As Realtor.com points out:

“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.”

Where to Focus Your Energy

Feeling ready to dive in, but not sure where to start? Take a cue from what other sellers are prioritizing right now. (Don’t worry—I’ll throw a graph in here to show you what’s trending!)

However, it’s important to remember that this isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. What’s hot with buyers in your neighborhood might be different than what’s happening elsewhere. And that’s where a good local agent comes in clutch.

Why a Local Agent is a Game-Changer

When it comes to selling smart, local market know-how is key. Let’s say updated kitchens are the talk of the town where you live. Your agent might recommend focusing your time and budget there instead of sinking cash into other areas that won’t offer as much bang for your buck.

They’ll also give you solid advice on whether bigger projects—like replacing the roof or upgrading the HVAC—are worth it based on the latest sales trends nearby. As Point emphasizes:

“Not all renovations are created equal, and focusing on upgrades that offer the highest potential for increasing your home's value is key.”

Even smaller fixes can pack a punch. Your agent might suggest sprucing up the front yard with fresh mulch, giving the front door a new color, or tackling other small touches that’ll make buyers swoon the moment they pull up to your house.

The Bottom Line

If you’re planning to sell your house next year, don’t hit the snooze button on getting it market-ready. By starting now, you’ll avoid the chaos of last-minute fixes and set yourself up for a smooth sale come 2025.

Need a little help figuring out what to focus on first? Let’s connect.