Thinking of Selling in 6 to 24 Months? Start With These Smart Steps

Thinking of Selling in 6 to 24 Months? Start With These Smart Steps

If you're planning to sell your home in the next 6 to 24 monthsnow is the perfect time to start preparing.

Too often, I meet homeowners who wait until the last minute to get their home ready, which can lead to stress, rushed decisions, and even leaving money on the table. The truth is, the best sales start months before the "For Sale" sign goes up.

As a real estate broker in Richmond, Texas with 17+ years of experience, I've helped hundreds of sellers get top dollar through smart planning. Here's what I recommend you start doing todaywhether you're 6 months or 2 years out.

1. Clarify Your Timeline & Goals

Before doing anything else, ask yourself:

• Why are you selling?

• When do you realistically want or need to move?

• Where are you going next?

Knowing your "why" helps guide every decisionfrom what updates to make to how you price and market your home when the time comes.

2. Declutter With Intention

The sooner you start decluttering, the easier your future sale will be.

• Start with closets, garages, and storage spaces.

• Set aside items to donate, sell, or toss.

• Remember: buyers pay more for homes that feel spacious and clean.

Even pre-packing a few boxes of seasonal items or decor can make your home feel less personal and more show-ready.

3. Tackle the Honey-Do List

If you know the faucet drips, the fence leans, or the door squeaksso will your buyer.

• Address small repairs over time so you're not overwhelmed later.

• Keep receipts for any maintenance or upgrades.

I often walk homes with sellers months before listing and point out high-impact, low-cost updates that make a big difference.

4. Focus on High-ROI Updates

Not all updates are created equal. Some renovations won't give you your money back, especially in a shifting market.

Here are a few budget-friendly improvements that usually pay off:

• Fresh neutral paint

• Updated light fixtures

• New cabinet hardware

• Curb appeal (trimmed landscaping, fresh mulch, clean front door)

• Deep cleaninginside and out!

Need help deciding what to update? I offer free pre-listing walkthroughs to help prioritize what adds the most value.

5. Gather Key Documents

You'll eventually need these, so save time by gathering them now:

• Survey

• HOA documents

• Utility bills

• Maintenance & repair records

• Roof, HVAC, or foundation warranties (if applicable)

Having this organized shows buyers that the home has been well maintainedand it makes the transaction smoother.

6. Get a Preliminary Home Value Estimate

Even if you're not selling yet, understanding your home's current market value will help you:

• Set realistic expectations

• Plan for your next move financially

• Spot opportunities to improve equity

I can prepare a free, personalized market analysis to show where your home stands todayand track how that changes over time.

7. Build Your Selling Team Early

Whether you're listing in 6 months or 2 years, it's never too early to get advice from a real estate professional.

I can help you:

• Decide on the best timing to list

• Create a customized prep plan

• Recommend contractors, organizers, stagers, or movers

• Avoid common seller mistakes (like overpricing or over-updating!)

Final Thoughts: Small Steps Now = Big Wins Later

Selling your home doesn't have to be overwhelming. By taking small, intentional steps now, you'll save yourself time, money, and stress when it's finally time to hit the market.

Ready to get started?
Let's schedule a no-pressure walk-through and create a customized prep plan that aligns with your goals and timeline.

Whether you're selling in 6 months, a year, or beyondI'm here to help you do it the smart way.

Anja Drewes Neidhardt

www.anjadrewes.com