If you're planning to sell your house in 2025, it's a good idea to start getting things ready now. It might feel like you have lots of time until then, but taking care of updates or repairs sooner rather than later can be really helpful. As Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com, points out:

““ . . . 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.”
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— Danielle Hale, Chief Economist at Realtor.com

Starting your prep work early will give you ample time to get your house ready for the market by year-end. Just make sure to team up with a skilled agent first, as they can provide valuable advice on which repairs are truly worthwhile in your local market.

Why Starting Early Is Key

To achieve the best price and sell your home quickly, you need to ensure it’s in top condition. This means taking care of any repairs, decluttering your space, and even thinking about updates that could increase its value before listing.

Starting now lets you approach tasks one at a time. Whether it’s fixing that leaky faucet, sprucing up your landscaping, or painting a room, getting an early start allows you to do the job correctly and with minimal stress. If you delay tackling your to-do list, those tasks can pile up and become overwhelming.

““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.”
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— Realtor.com

What Should You Focus On?

Feeling like you want to tackle that to-do list but not sure where to dive in? Here are some of the most popular improvements that other sellers are focusing on these days (check out the graph below):

The Importance of Working with a Local Agent

That data is a great place to begin, but it's not the whole picture. What buyers are looking for in your area might vary, and only a local agent will really know the details.

If houses in your neighborhood are being snatched up fast and those homes have modern kitchens, your agent might recommend that you concentrate on small kitchen upgrades instead of investing in other areas that won’t pay off as well. They’ll also assist you in determining whether it makes sense to take on bigger projects, like getting a new roof or upgrading your HVAC system, based on what's recently sold nearby.

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

It’s important to keep in mind that it’s not only the major upgrades that can make a difference. Your agent will also guide you on those smaller touches—like tidying up the yard, putting down some fresh mulch, or giving your front door a new coat of paint. These small improvements can significantly influence how buyers perceive your home. This kind of expertise is essential for helping your house sell quickly and at the best price.

Bottom Line

Thinking about selling your house next year? It’s a good idea to start preparing early instead of waiting until the last minute. By taking some steps now, you’ll be ready to go once the new year arrives.

Need help figuring out what to focus on first? Let’s talk.