You’ve got big plans for 2026. But what you do this year could be the difference between a smooth sale and a stressful one. If you’re planning to list your home next spring — the busiest season in real estate — the smartest move you can make is to start prepping now.
As Realtor.com explains:
“If you’re aiming to sell in 2026, now is the time to start preparing, especially if you want to maximize the spring market’s higher buyer activity.”
Getting ahead now means fewer last-minute headaches, better presentation, and more confidence when it’s time to sell.
Why Starting Now Matters
Talk to any seasoned agent, and they’ll tell you: you can’t afford to skip prep work in today’s competitive market. With more homes for sale than in previous years, buyers have options — and your property needs to stand out.
That doesn’t mean you need to launch a full renovation. It means tackling smart upgrades and necessary repairs early. From fixing that leaky faucet to repainting your front door, every improvement adds to your home’s appeal.
Starting now gives you:
-
Time flexibility: You can spread out projects without rushing.
-
Cost control: You’ll avoid paying premium rates for last-minute jobs.
-
Peace of mind: You’ll be ready to list with confidence when the season heats up.
The sooner you start, the smoother your sale process will be — and the more likely you are to capture buyers’ attention when it matters most.
Get an Agent’s Advice Early
Before you invest time or money in upgrades, talk to a local real estate expert. They’ll help you decide which projects actually make sense for your market — and which ones won’t impact your bottom line.
As Realtor.com highlights:
“Respondents overwhelmingly agree that both buyers and sellers enjoy a smoother, more successful experience when they start early… bringing a real estate agent into the process sooner can pay off significantly.”
A skilled agent can help you:
-
Identify what buyers in your area are looking for
-
Prioritize which repairs or updates will make the most impact
-
Recommend trusted local contractors for quality work
-
Help you set a realistic pricing and marketing plan
With that expert input, you’ll avoid unnecessary spending — and focus on the upgrades that deliver the best return.
What Projects Are Worth Tackling?
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), the most common updates agents recommend today include:
-
Fresh paint and curb appeal touch-ups
-
Kitchen and bathroom updates (even small ones)
-
Flooring repairs or replacements
-
Lighting and hardware upgrades
-
Decluttering and depersonalizing spaces
But remember — every market is different. In areas with fewer listings, small changes might be all you need. In markets with higher inventory, more substantial updates could help your home stand out.
That’s why having a local agent’s guidance early on is so valuable. They’ll tailor recommendations to your neighborhood, budget, and selling timeline — so you know exactly where to focus your efforts.
Bottom Line
If 2026 is your year to sell, the work starts now. Prepping early means you’ll enter the market confident, ready, and positioned ahead of other sellers who waited until the new year to start.
Want to know which updates deliver the highest return in your market?
👉 Connect with The Ace Estate Team today to create your personalized selling strategy and make 2026 your most rewarding move yet.
