How to Prep Your Home Like a Pro (Even Months in Advance)
- Joshualee
- Sep 5
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 24
Thinking about selling your home in the next few months? The smartest sellers know success doesn’t start when the sign goes up it starts well before that.
The homes that sell fastest and for the best price usually have one thing in common: strategic preparation.
If you’re even considering selling later this year or next, here’s how to set yourself up for success starting now.
1. Think Like a Buyer (And Walk Through Your Home Like One)
We all get used to the little quirks in our homes, but a fresh set of eyes sees everything—so let’s walk through your home like a buyer would.
Ask yourself:
Is there clutter I’ve stopped noticing?
Do any small repairs stand out (peeling paint, scuffed baseboards)?
Is the lighting warm and inviting?
The goal isn’t perfection. It’s polish. You want buyers to walk in and feel like your home has been loved and well cared for.
2. Start the Decluttering Process Now (Even If You're Months Away)
Decluttering takes longer than most people expect, so starting early is one of the best things you can do.
Here’s a simple system:
🟢 Keep
🟡 Donate
🔴 Toss
🟣 Store (for things you want to move but don’t need daily)
Not only will this help you prep your home it’ll make your eventual move way less stressful.
3. Focus on Light, Space, and First Impressions
Some of the best upgrades are the smallest:
Swap out dim or outdated light fixtures
Repaint dark or bold walls in lighter neutrals
Power wash walkways or front steps
Refinish or deep-clean floors
If you’re not sure what matters most, I’m happy to do a walk-through and tell you which changes will actually move the needle in your neighborhood.
4. Prep Now, Market Later
When you start prepping early, you give yourself the flexibility to list your home when the timing is right, not when you're rushed or overwhelmed.
I’ve had sellers prep their homes in the fall, list in the spring, and beat the market by weeks—just because they were ready to move when the right window opened.
Want a Custom Prep Timeline?
Whether you’re 2 months or 12 months out, I’m happy to walk through your home and create a step-by-step prep plan that makes selling feel clear and manageable. No pressure. Just real advice, at your pace.
📧 Email me with your timeline, and I’ll send you a custom Seller’s Prep Checklist.
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📚 Free Seller’s Guide
Download my Seller’s Guide to walk you through the process, from prepping your home to closing the deal.
Josh Lee
DRE #02163289
Strategic Listing Specialist | San Mateo Realtor | Local Resource
(650) 881-2972
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