Planning To Sell in 2026? Here’s Why You Should Start Prepping Now

If selling your home is on your radar for 2026, now is the time to start laying the groundwork — especially if you want to take full advantage of the spring market, which is traditionally the busiest and most competitive time of year in real estate.

At Mills Real Estate Group, we always tell our clients: preparation pays off. Starting now gives you the flexibility to tackle necessary updates without the stress of rushing or overspending — and positions your home to shine when it hits the market.

Why Starting Early Matters

In today’s market, repairs and presentation matter more than ever. With more inventory available than we’ve seen in recent years, buyers have options — which means your home needs to stand out.

That doesn’t mean you need to embark on a full remodel, but it does mean you should address key items like:

• Minor repairs (think leaky faucets or sticky doors)
• Fresh paint or touch-ups
• Landscaping and curb appeal
• Decluttering and depersonalizing living spaces

Spreading these projects out over several months gives you time to plan, budget, and even shop around for the best contractors — instead of scrambling when spring rolls around.

Talk to a Local Agent — Now

One of the smartest moves you can make is connecting with a trusted real estate agent early in the process. Every market is different, and a good agent will help you:

• Identify which updates are worth your time and money
• Prioritize the most impactful changes based on buyer demand
• Avoid wasting resources on renovations that won’t increase your return
• Connect with vetted local professionals to help you prep

According to a recent Realtor.com survey, sellers who bring an agent into the process sooner often have a smoother, more successful experience. Don’t wait until you’re ready to list — bring in your agent now, and work together to create a custom plan.

What Improvements Matter Most?

Research from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows the most commonly recommended updates by agents include:

• Fresh interior paint
• Upgraded lighting fixtures
• Landscaping touch-ups
• Modernized kitchens or bathrooms (even just small changes!)
• Replacing outdated flooring

Keep in mind that what makes sense in one neighborhood might not be necessary in another. That’s where expert insight becomes invaluable. In a low-inventory area, simple touch-ups may do the trick. In a higher inventory market, more competitive homes may require a bit more investment to stand out.

Bottom Line

2026 may feel far off, but if it’s your goal to sell — your preparation should start now. From repairs to updates to marketing strategy, laying the foundation now will save you time, money, and stress later.

Ready to create a custom selling plan? Let Mills Real Estate Group guide you through every step of the process so you can enter the spring market confident, prepared, and ahead of the competition.

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