🏡 Planning to Move in 2026? Start Preparing Your Home Now

If a move is on your horizon for 2026, now is the perfect time to get a head start. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or relocating, giving yourself plenty of runway can make the selling process smoother, less stressful, and more profitable.

Here are a few smart ways to start preparing your home now, well before the “For Sale” sign goes up:

🧹 1. Start Decluttering Early

One of the most time-consuming parts of getting a home ready to sell is sorting through belongings. Tackle one room at a time this fall and winter — donate, sell, or store items you no longer need. Decluttering not only makes moving easier later but also helps your home feel more spacious and well cared for when buyers eventually walk through.

.

🧰 2. Tackle Maintenance and Small Repairs

Loose railings, leaky faucets, peeling paint, or broken tiles might seem minor now, but they can raise red flags during a home inspection. Create a checklist of repairs and tackle them over the coming months. Spreading the work out makes it less overwhelming and ensures your home is in top shape when it hits the market.

🏠 3. Consider Strategic Upgrades

Not all renovations offer a good return on investment, but simple updates like fresh paint, modern light fixtures, or improved landscaping can go a long way. If larger updates are needed (like flooring or a kitchen refresh), starting early gives you time to plan, budget, and complete the work without rushing.

📸 4. Think About Curb Appeal in Every Season

If you plan to list in early 2026, take some exterior photos now while your yard is still looking good in the fall. This can be especially valuable if landscaping is a key selling feature. Meanwhile, keep up with seasonal maintenance like gutter cleaning, lawn care, and snow removal to maintain a neat exterior year-round.

📝 5. Get a Market Evaluation & Selling Timeline

Connecting with a local realtor early gives you valuable insights into market trends, pricing strategies, and ideal timing. A quick walk-through now can help identify which updates or changes will give you the best return — and which aren’t worth the investment.

✨ A Smooth Sale Starts with Early Prep

Preparing well in advance allows you to make thoughtful improvements, avoid last-minute stress, and position your home to shine when you’re ready to sell.

If a 2026 move is on your radar, now’s the time to start laying the groundwork. I’d be happy to offer a no-obligation walkthrough and customized prep plan for your home — months (or even a year) before you list.