While you might just now be getting around to taking down your tree, the truth is that spring market is a lot closer than it seems! Already aligned on making moves once spring market is in full bloom? In that case, it’s wise to start preparing for the ensuing rush today. After all, there’s no substitute for having a foolproof plan in place in order to ensure you’re set up for success when the time comes.

Whether you’re thinking of buying or selling, keep reading to learn why — and how — you can get ready for your moment in the spotlight this spring!

First Things First…Why Do I Need To Start Now?: The spring season is traditionally a busy and competitive time in the real estate market, and taking proactive steps beforehand can help you make the most of the opportunities available. Here are some reasons why it’s beneficial to prepare for the spring real estate market in advance:

➤ Both buyers and sellers can benefit from researching local real estate market trends and understanding the pricing dynamics well before they’re planning to list or buy. Knowing the market conditions in advance helps sellers set a realistic asking price, and buyers can be better informed about property values in their desired areas.

➤ And then there’s the fact that real estate professionals, such as real estate agents, mortgage brokers, and home inspectors, are typically busy during the spring market. By engaging with us as early as possible, you can secure the services and ensure you have the support you need when the market becomes more active.

Should you hire a Realtor® to sell your home? Read this post to find out.

Proactive Steps Sellers Can Take:

#1 Inspect and Repair: Conduct a thorough home inspection to identify any necessary repairs. Address issues such as leaky faucets, faulty wiring, or roof damage, and consider making upgrades or improvements to enhance your property’s appeal.

#2 Enhance Curb Appeal: All curb, no appeal? To remedy the situation, we advise cleaning up your yard, trimming bushes, and planting flowers to enhance your home’s first impression. Take it one step further by repainting the front door, updating outdoor lighting, and making sure the exterior of the house is clean and well-maintained.

#3 Declutter and Depersonalize: They say one man’s trash is another one’s treasure, but in the world of real estate, anything that can distract a buyer from imagining their own life there must go. That’s why you should declutter each room to make spaces look larger and more inviting, and depersonalize by removing personal items while you’re at it.

#4 Set a Realistic Asking Price: When you work with us, we’ll help research comparable sales in the area to set a competitive and realistic asking price up front.

#5 Market Strategically: Looking to get a head start on the competition? We advise our clients to plan the timing of their listing to coincide with the peak of the spring market, while developing a winning marketing strategy to match.

#6 Consider Professional Photography: This just in: High-quality photos can significantly enhance your listing’s appeal — especially in this social-media-driven, clickbait-dominated era. When you work with us, we’ll connect you with a professional photographer to capture your home in its best light — and stop anyone from scrolling on.

#7 Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents, such as property records, warranties, and maintenance records ahead of time to streamline the selling process.

➤ Looking for more home selling tips? Read these posts next:

• Your Guide to Buying and Selling During the School Year
• Should You Hire a Friend to Sell Your Home?
• How to Buy and Sell at the Same Time

Proactive Steps Buyers Can Take:

#1 Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage: It’s always a good idea to contact mortgage lenders and get pre-approved for a mortgage at the onset to strengthen your offer. Understanding your budget in advance helps narrow down your search, and when you choose our team, we’ll be there every step of the way.

#2 Define Your Criteria: How can you know what you’re looking for if you haven’t even mapped out your hopes, expectations, and dealbreakers? We suggest taking ample time to define your priorities — such as location, size, and features — to focus your search and streamline the ensuing process.

#3 Work with a Real Estate Agent: There’s no substitute for a reputable real estate agent with experience helping buyers win in a competitive local market. Powered by our collective expertise and dedication, our team will offer valuable insights, negotiate on your behalf, and guide you through the process with humor and compassion.

#4 Attend Open Houses: Attending open houses in your target neighborhoods to get a sense of the local market and available inventory is always a good idea!

#5 Research Market Trends: We’re invested in helping every buyer stay up-to-date on the latest market trends and pricing in their desired area — insights we’ll leverage to ensure you find the home of your dreams at a price point that works.

Thinking about buying or selling in the near future? Get in touch with our team directly by calling us at 202.280.2060 or emailing us at jsmira@jennsmira.com.