This week’s Q&A column was written by Darlene Duffett from McEnearney Associates Realtors®, the leading real estate firm in Alexandria. To learn more about this article and relevant Alexandria market news, contact Darlene at 703-969-9015 or email (email protected)You can also send your questions to McEnearney Associates via e-mail for answers in future columns.
Ask: What should I do if I want to sell my house in a year?
Answer: Last week, while walking around Old Town, I happened to run into a friend who said, “I’m so glad I saw you. We’re planning to sell and retire to Florida in a year and would like to invite you over to tell us what we need to do to prepare.” Hence this article!
Preparing to sell your home in a year
Selling a home is a big financial and emotional undertaking and requires careful preparation to get the best price possible. If you plan to sell your home in a year, now is the perfect time to start. By being proactive, you can ensure your home is in top condition, attract potential buyers, and streamline the selling process. Here are some things you could do now if you plan to sell your home in a year.
Consult a real estate agent — That’s my first piece of advice, of course. It’s never too early to consult a real estate agent, even if you’re not planning on selling for a year. An experienced agent can give you valuable insight into the local market, recommend improvements to increase your home’s value, and help you set a timeline for your sale. They can also guide you through the entire process, from listing your home to closing the deal.
Increase the attractiveness of your home — First impressions count, and the exterior of your home is the first thing prospective buyers see. Take a critical look at your home’s exterior curb appeal. Ask your agent or a friend for an honest opinion. Consider pressure washing, freshening up the front door, and replacing worn-out fixtures. Landscaping is also crucial; trimming overgrown bushes, planting flowers, and maintaining a well-manicured lawn can greatly increase your home’s curb appeal. I also always like to add a pop of color with some flower pots by the front door or walkway.
Declutter and organize — Over time, clutter can quickly accumulate in your home. Start by decluttering each room, focusing on items you no longer need or use. Consider holding a garage sale or donating items to charity. Organizing your space will make it easier to prepare your home when the time comes, and it will also give you a head start on packing.
Consider painting and modernization — I always recommend a fresh coat of paint in neutral colors as it makes a huge difference. While you don’t have to do a complete renovation, strategic improvements can increase your home’s value and appeal to buyers. Focus on areas that offer a good return on investment, such as upgrading the kitchen or bathroom, updating appliances or refreshing fixtures.
Carry out necessary repairs –– Small repairs can have a big impact on a buyer’s perception of your home. Now is the time to address minor issues like leaky faucets, cracked tiles or worn walls. For major problems like a leaky roof or outdated electrical systems, invest in repairs or replacements. A well-maintained home can justify a higher asking price and prevent negotiations from getting bogged down due to inspection results.
Research the market — To set realistic expectations and price your home properly, it’s important to understand the local real estate market. Start by researching comparable homes in your area to get a feel for current market trends. Pay attention to factors like the average time homes stay on the market, final sale prices compared to list prices, and the types of homes that sell quickly. This information will be valuable when it comes time to set your asking price. Stay informed about market conditions. Because real estate markets fluctuate, it’s important to stay informed about changing economic conditions, interest rates, and housing market trends.
Collect important documents — Start gathering important documents now to avoid last-minute rushes. This includes your property deed, mortgage information, tax documents, and any warranties or manuals for appliances or systems in your home. Look through all of your documents to make a list of improvements and deadlines.
Stage your home –– When staging your home, you don’t have to completely redecorate it, but making it as inviting as possible can make a big difference. Start by depersonalizing your space; remove family photos and personal items so potential buyers can imagine living there. Consider rearranging furniture to create a more open and spacious feel. If necessary, consider hiring a professional staging contractor close to the time you plan to list your home.
Plan your moving strategy — Although it may seem premature, planning your move early can avoid stress later. Think about your moving strategy—whether you need to rent temporary storage space, hire professional movers, or do the move yourself.
Selling your home in a year may seem a long way off, but starting to prepare now can make all the difference when it’s time to put your home on the market. By increasing your home’s curb appeal, making necessary repairs, and staying informed about market conditions, you’ll be well positioned to attract buyers and achieve a successful sale.
Darlene Duffett is a licensed Virginia real estate agent with McEnearney Associates Realtors® in Old Town, Alexandria. She is licensed in Virginia and Washington, DC. She has built a reputation as a partner to her friends and clients in the home buying or selling process. If you would like more information about selling or buying in today’s complex market, contact Darlene at 703-969-9015. (email protected) or visit DarleneDuffettRealEstate.com.
If you would like to have a question answered in our weekly column or would like to schedule an appointment with one of our staff, send an email to: (email protected) or call 703.549.9292.
McEnearney Associates Realtors®, 109 S. Pitt Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. www.McEnearney.com Equal housing opportunities. #WeAreAlexandria
