Thinking about selling next year? The best time to start is actually right now.

Why Now Is the Time to Start Planning

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. The holiday season is here, and if you're like most people, you're probably thinking about family gatherings, cooking plans, and maybe a little time to relax.

But if you've been thinking about selling your home in the new year, this season is actually the perfect time to get a head start.

I know what you might be thinking. "Maggie, I'm busy enough with the holidays. Why would I start preparing to sell now?"

Fair question. And I'm not suggesting you list your home during Thanksgiving dinner or put a For Sale sign up before Christmas.

What I am saying is this: the homes that sell quickly and smoothly in the new year are the ones where the owners started preparing early.

After 28 years in real estate here in the Upstate, I've seen it time and time again. The sellers who take a few small steps during the holidays end up ahead of the game when spring rolls around. They're less stressed, their homes show better, and they have more options.

So let's talk about three simple steps you can take right now to be ready when the time comes.

Step 1: Start Planning Now

What You Can Do Before New Year to Get Ahead

The beginning of the year is when a lot of people start thinking seriously about moving. They've made their New Year's resolutions, they're motivated, and they're ready to take action.

But if you wait until January to start getting your home ready, you're already behind.

The good news? You don't need to do everything at once. You just need to start thinking ahead.

• Start with a walk-through. Take a fresh look at your home. Not as someone who lives there, but as someone who might want to buy it. What do you notice? What needs attention? What could use a little refresh?

• Make a list. Write down the things that need fixing, updating, or organizing. You don't have to tackle everything right away. Just knowing what needs to be done helps you prioritize.

• Connect with me. If you're serious about selling in the new year, let's have a conversation now. I can walk through your home with you, give you an honest assessment of what buyers are looking for, and help you create a realistic timeline. No pressure, just planning.

• Think about timing. When do you want to list? Early spring? Late winter? Knowing your target date helps you work backward and figure out what needs to happen when.

The key is to start making decisions now, even if you're not taking action yet. That way, when January comes, you're ready to move forward instead of scrambling to catch up.

Getting ahead of the game means less stress and more control. You'll have time to make smart decisions instead of rushed ones.

Step 2: Use the Holidays Wisely

Declutter and Make Light Updates While You Have Time

The holidays are actually a great time to get your home ready to sell. You're already doing some cleaning and organizing for guests. Why not take it a step further?

• Declutter while you decorate. As you're pulling out holiday decorations, take a look at what else is hiding in your closets, cabinets, and storage spaces. If you haven't used it in a year, do you really need it? Start setting things aside to donate, sell, or toss. Future you will thank you.

• Focus on the main spaces first. Buyers care most about kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas. Clear off your countertops. Organize under the sinks. Put away small appliances you don't use daily. These small changes make a big visual impact.

• Tackle light updates. You don't need a full renovation to get your home ready. But little things matter. Replace outdated light fixtures. Touch up scuffed paint. Fix that wobbly cabinet handle. These small fixes show buyers that the home has been cared for.

• Create space. Buyers want to see a home that feels open and inviting. Pack up some of your extra furniture, books, and knickknacks. Store them at a friend's place or rent a small storage unit for a few months. The investment is worth it.

• Don't overdo the holiday decor. If you're planning to have your home photographed or show it during the holidays, keep decorations simple and tasteful. A wreath on the door and a centerpiece on the table are perfect. A life-size Santa in every room? Not so much.

The beauty of doing this work during the holidays is that you're already in the mindset of preparing your home for guests. You're just extending that preparation a little further.

Small updates and decluttering don't cost much, but they make your home more appealing to buyers. And doing them now means they're done when you need them.

Step 3: Beat the Spring Rush

Why Early Preparation Gives You Leverage

Every year, the same thing happens. Spring arrives, the weather warms up, and suddenly everyone wants to buy or sell a home at the same time.

Buyers flood the market. Sellers rush to list. And everyone is competing for attention.

But if you've already done the work during the winter months, you're in a completely different position.

• You're ready when others aren't. While other sellers are still painting, decluttering, and making repairs, your home is already polished and ready to list. That means you can hit the market early and capture buyers before the competition heats up.

• You have flexibility. When you're prepared ahead of time, you're not pressured to accept the first offer that comes along. You can take your time, evaluate your options, and make decisions that are right for you.

• You avoid stress. Preparing a home for sale while trying to live in it and manage showings is stressful. But if you've already done most of the work, the process feels manageable instead of overwhelming.

• You show better. Homes that are truly ready sell faster and often for better prices. Buyers can tell the difference between a home that was rushed onto the market and one that was thoughtfully prepared.

Think of it this way. Would you rather be ready early and have options, or be scrambling to catch up while everyone else is already ahead?

Starting now gives you a competitive advantage. You'll be ready to move when the moment is right, not when you're forced to.

So... Ready to Make Your Plan?

Selling your home is a big decision. And like most big decisions, it goes better when you have time to prepare.
The holidays might feel like an odd time to think about real estate. But trust me, a little planning now makes everything easier later.

You don't have to do everything at once. Just start thinking about it.

Make a list. Have a conversation. Take one small step.

And when the new year rolls around, you'll be glad you did.

Need a Faster, Simpler Option?

If you're curious about what your home might be worth or want to explore a quicker way to sell, I can help with that, too.

Sometimes a traditional sale isn't the right fit. Maybe you need to move quickly, or maybe you'd rather skip the repairs and showings altogether. If that sounds like you, a cash offer might be worth considering.

👉Get Your Cash Offer Here

No obligation. Just another option to explore as you're thinking about what comes next.

Final Thoughts

The best time to prepare your home for sale isn't when you're ready to list. It's before.

If you're thinking about selling in the new year, let's talk. I'd be happy to walk through your home, answer your questions, and help you create a plan that works for your timeline and goals.

Because when you're prepared, everything else falls into place.

Your home should work for you, not the other way around.