10 Things You Should Do a Year Before Listing Your Home

Selling your home is a big step, and preparing well in advance can make the process smoother and more successful. Here’s what you should start doing now if you’re planning to sell your home in the next year.

1. Research Where You Want to Move

Before listing your home, it's crucial to know where you’re going next. Start researching potential areas or cities that appeal to you. Think about factors like proximity to work, schools, or family. Compare home prices in those areas to get an idea of what your next home might cost. This can help you set realistic expectations for your sale and purchase process.

2. Set Your Budget for Your Next Home

Once you’ve narrowed down where you want to move, it’s time to set a budget. Assess your financial situation to determine how much you’ll need for a down payment, as well as closing costs and moving expenses. If you are purchasing a new home, consider getting pre-approved for a mortgage. Knowing your budget now will make the transition smoother and allow you to plan ahead.

3. Research Local Real Estate Agents

Finding the right real estate agent is key to a successful home sale. Start researching agents in your area early so you can find someone who’s experienced, knowledgeable, and a good fit for your needs. Look for agents with a strong track record of selling homes similar to yours and who are familiar with your neighborhood. Meeting with agents early on can also give you insights into what you’ll need to do to prepare your home for the market.

4. Make Any Major Home Renovations

If your home has any significant issues—such as an aging roof, damaged flooring, or outdated kitchen appliances—it’s best to tackle these renovations now. Major repairs or updates can increase your home’s value and make it more appealing to buyers. Keep in mind that smaller tasks like landscaping, cleaning, and decluttering can be saved for closer to when you’re ready to list.

5. Get a Pre-Sale Home Inspection

A pre-sale home inspection can help you identify any potential issues that might delay or derail the sale. By addressing these issues early, you’ll avoid surprises during the buyer’s inspection process. This can also give buyers confidence in your home’s condition, which could speed up negotiations and lead to a smoother sale.

6. Explore Programs and Assistance

Depending on your circumstances, there may be helpful programs available to you, such as grants or low-interest loans for home improvements, tax benefits, or moving assistance. Look into what resources are available, especially if you’re a first-time seller or if you qualify for any special programs based on your profession, age, or location.

7. Evaluate Market Trends and Timing

Real estate markets fluctuate, so it’s important to keep an eye on local market trends. Check out how similar homes in your neighborhood are selling, and talk to your real estate agent about the best time to list your property. If your area typically has seasonal spikes in buyer interest, timing your sale accordingly could help you sell faster and for a higher price.

8. Start Saving for Selling Costs

Selling a home comes with its own set of costs, from agent commissions to closing fees. Start setting aside money now for these expenses, which can be around 6-10% of the sale price. This will help you avoid financial stress when it’s time to sell and ensure you’re ready for any unexpected costs that might arise.

9. Prepare Financial Documents

Getting your financial documents in order early will make the home-selling process easier down the line. Start organizing paperwork like your mortgage statement, property tax information, utility bills, and any home improvement records. If you’re purchasing another home, you’ll also need to prepare documents for mortgage pre-approval, so getting these in order ahead of time can save you a lot of hassle.

10. Plan for Moving Expenses

Moving costs can add up quickly, especially if you’re relocating to a new city or state. Start researching moving companies, getting quotes, and budgeting for expenses like movers, storage, or temporary housing. Planning ahead will help you avoid surprises and make the transition from one home to the next as smooth as possible.