How to Prepare Now to Sell Your Home in 2025

Are you thinking about selling your home in St. George next year? When you sell your home, there are many factors beyond your control. Market conditions, the buyers that are in the market at that time, and other elements of the situation are outside your control, but there are some things you can do to set yourself up for success. You don't have to wait for next year to prepare; in fact, these are some things you can begin doing now to prepare your home for sale in the spring. 

Get an Inspection

Did you know you can have your home inspected before selling it, not just during the escrow process? Traditionally, a home inspection takes place on the buyer's behalf after an offer has been accepted, but it can also be a smart choice to have a pre-listing inspection, evaluating your home for any major repairs or issues that could deter potential buyers. Fall is an ideal time for a thorough inspection since winter conditions can exacerbate existing issues.

A pre-listing inspection a few months before listing will give you time to address and repairs that are needed, and help you avoid unpleasant surprises that cause a deal to fall through or cut into your profits. We can also help you leverage your pre-listing inspection by letting potential buyers know the home has recently been expected. This can be a powerful marketing tool. 

Handle Minor Repairs

In addition to major issues that might be revealed by a home inspection, little issues matter, too. Smaller repairs might seem insignificant, but they add up in the buyer’s mind. Use the fall season to consider updates like these so that your home feels move-in ready:

• Interior and Exterior Paint: Repainting walls, doors, and trim with neutral colors creates a fresh and clean look. Outdoor painting is best done before winter temperatures drop.
• Fix Leaky Faucets and Squeaky Doors: These small maintenance tasks make a big difference in how your home is perceived.
• Check Lights: Ensure all bulbs are working and consider using warm-toned lighting for a cozy feel during fall and winter showings.

Begin Packing Now

Most households have many belongings that they use just once in a while, like seasonal decor or camping gear. Consider whether you have anything that you don't plan to use between now and moving in the spring and get a head start on packing by getting these items into boxes or storage now. 

Not only will this give you a head start on moving, but it also makes decluttering, cleaning, and staging your home for sale far easier. 

Declutter and Organize

Potential buyers are attracted to homes that feel spacious and organized. In fact, effective storage is a top priority for some buyers. Use fall to go through closets, basements, garages, and other storage areas to make them feel organized.

Buyers often check out storage spaces, and cluttered cabinets or closets can make them seem smaller. In the garage or a shed, clear out unnecessary tools or items. A tidy garage or shed gives buyers a sense of usable space. You can also optimize the storage you have by investing in custom shelving or organizers, or just getting rid of things you don't need to make closets and shelves appear more spacious. 

Consult a Realtor Early

Of all the tips we can give, this one might be the most important. It's not too early to talk with a realtor about selling your home in the spring. In fact, we can have a look at your home and give you an idea of what it's worth and what changes or improvements could be made to boost the appeal of the property. We can review homes recently sold in your area to advise on competitive features, and we can also give insight into the pricing strategy, which can influence your preparations.

By addressing maintenance needs, decluttering, enhancing curb appeal, and planning key updates in advance, you’ll put your home in a prime position to attract buyers when the spring market heats up. Taking these steps now not only reduces stress but also increases your chances of selling quickly, and at the best price, when the time comes.

Want to learn more about the St. George real estate market? Contact us any time to find out what your home is currently worth or what you need to know about selling a home in St. George.