It’s not too early - here are some things you can do now to make selling less chaotic and help drive top dollar for your home.
Connect with a trusted real estate agent to review recommendations for preparing your home for the market. Getting a head start on your to-do list ensures you’re not scrambling when spring rolls around.
You’ll need to declutter before moving anyway, so why not start now? Tackling it little by little makes the process far less stressful when it’s time to pack up (bonus-it’ll also make your photos shine).
Hire a handyman, painter, or plumber to check off those lingering small projects you’ve been putting off. Fixing leaky faucets, touching up paint, or repairing loose fixtures now will leave your home looking move-in ready come showing time.
Curb appeal matters! Fall is the perfect time to replace dead plants or trees so your yard looks its best. Simple improvements- like mulching, trimming, and planting—can make a big impact on buyers’ first impressions.
Get ahead of the spring rush by booking key services now. Schedule your HVAC cleaning, window washing, spring landscape clean-up, sprinkler turn-on, and any other seasonal maintenance. Bonus tip: keep a master spreadsheet of vendor contacts to pass along to your future buyers—it’s a thoughtful touch they’ll appreciate.
Your home’s first showing happens online through photos, so timing matters. Capture your property when the trees are still full and the lawn is green, rather than when it’s competing against snow-covered yards and bare branches. Be sure your decor is neutral, too—avoid holiday-specific themes like Halloween, Thanksgiving, or Christmas.
With these steps, you’ll not only make the selling process smoother but also position your home to stand out in the market and attract top offers.
By taking these simple steps now, you'll reduce stress later and set yourself up for a successful spring sale. A little preparation goes a long way in attracting serious buyers and maximizing your return.
Thinking of making a move? As the #1 Compass team in DuPage County, we’re here to help you plan ahead, stay organized, and sell with confidence—whenever you're ready.