Planning to Sell Your Home in 2025? Here's How to Prep Your Space for the Market

If your to-do list for 2025 includes "sell this house," now is the time to start thinking about how to get your home market-ready. The housing market can be competitive, and making the right improvements before listing your home can significantly impact how quickly it sells and at what price.

As you prepare to make the leap, here’s a quick reminder: getting your house prepped for the market isn’t something you should leave until the last minute. Whether you’re planning to sell in the spring or later in the year, it’s never too early to start.

So, What Home Improvements Should You Be Focusing On?

You might be wondering, What kinds of improvements should I make to ensure my home stands out in a crowded market? While your real estate agent will be an invaluable resource for helping you identify the most important upgrades, here are some of the most common and effective improvements that sellers make to prepare their homes for sale:

1. Painting the Interior (46%)
   One of the most cost-effective ways to freshen up your home and make it look more appealing is with a fresh coat of paint. A clean, neutral color palette can help buyers envision themselves in the space, and it can make your home feel brighter and more modern. Over 46% of sellers choose to repaint the interior before listing, and it’s one of the first improvements many buyers notice.

2. Improving the Bathrooms (42%)
   Bathrooms are a key selling point for many buyers, and small upgrades can go a long way. Whether it’s installing new fixtures, replacing old grout, or refreshing the cabinetry, 42% of sellers make improvements to their bathrooms. Simple updates can make your bathrooms feel more luxurious and functional.

3. Upgrading the Kitchen (38%)
   The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, and many buyers look for modern, updated spaces. Whether it’s upgrading appliances, replacing countertops, or simply giving cabinets a fresh coat of paint, 38% of sellers make improvements to the kitchen. Even small updates can drastically increase the perceived value of your home.

4. Landscaping the Yard (35%)
   First impressions matter, and curb appeal can play a significant role in how quickly your home sells. Landscaping the yard, adding some attractive plants, and maintaining the lawn can make your property stand out. 35% of sellers focus on outdoor improvements to create a welcoming, attractive entrance that draws buyers in.

5. Replacing Carpet or Flooring (28%)
   Old or worn flooring can be a turn-off for buyers, so it’s no surprise that many sellers opt to replace carpeting or hardwood. Whether it’s refreshing carpet or installing new hardwood, 28% of sellers choose to make flooring upgrades before listing. This can add both comfort and visual appeal to your home.

6. Painting the Exterior (28%)
   Just like the interior, the exterior of your home matters too. A freshly painted exterior can give your home a polished, well-maintained look that attracts potential buyers. 28% of sellers choose to paint the exterior of their homes, especially if the paint is worn or outdated.

Get Ahead of the Spring Market

Many sellers choose to list their homes in the spring, but that doesn’t mean you should wait until the last minute to make improvements. The earlier you start prepping, the more time you’ll have to carefully plan and execute these updates. Plus, getting your home ready ahead of time can help ensure that you hit the market when competition is at its peak, giving you the best chance for a successful sale.

Need help getting started or unsure where to focus your efforts? The Justiz League Real Estate Team is here to guide you every step of the way. Reach out today to start prepping your home for a successful sale!

Source:
National Association of Realtors (NAR), 2023 Remodeling Impact Report.