Thinking about selling your home in the next few months?

If so, the smartest move you can make is starting early.

Most sellers underestimate how long it takes to properly prepare a home for the market. Whether you’ve lived in your home for five years or thirty, preparation almost always takes longer than expected.

Here’s a practical 90-day roadmap to help you move forward strategically — not reactively.

Days 90–60: Strategy & Decluttering

This phase is about planning, not panic.

Step 1: Meet With a Realtor First

Before you:

• Replace flooring

• Remodel a bathroom

• Paint every room

• Spend money on upgrades

Talk to a professional.

A Realtor can help you determine:

• What buyers expect in your price range

• Which updates add value

• What improvements are unnecessary

• How to time your listing

This conversation can save you thousands of dollars.

Step 2: Start Decluttering (It Takes Longer Than You Think)

This is the phase most sellers underestimate.

If you’ve lived in your home:

• 5+ years → expect several weeks

• 20+ years → expect months

Start with:
☐ Closets
☐ Basement
☐ Garage
☐ Attic
☐ Paperwork

Be realistic. Sorting through decades of belongings is emotional and time-consuming.

Consider:

• Renting a storage unit

• Hiring a professional organizer

• Scheduling donation pickups

Decluttering early reduces stress later.

Days 60–30: Repairs & Refresh

Now that the house is lighter and more organized, you can clearly see what needs attention.

Step 3: Create a Smart Repair List

Focus on:
☐ Neutral paint touch-ups
☐ Minor drywall repairs
☐ Fixing leaky faucets
☐ Replacing outdated light fixtures
☐ Cleaning or replacing worn carpet
☐ Exterior power washing

Avoid:
🚫 Major remodels unless strategically necessary
🚫 Over-improving for the neighborhood

The goal isn’t perfection. It’s buyer confidence.

Step 4: Boost Curb Appeal

First impressions set the tone.

☐ Trim shrubs
☐ Add fresh mulch
☐ Plant seasonal flowers
☐ Wash windows
☐ Paint or clean the front door
☐ Ensure house numbers are visible

Buyers often decide how they feel before they even step inside.

Days 30–7: Presentation & Final Preparation

Now we shift from preparation to positioning.

Step 5: Deep Clean

Hire professionals if possible.

☐ Clean baseboards
☐ Wash windows
☐ Clean grout
☐ Eliminate odors
☐ Polish fixtures

Clean homes photograph better — and feel more valuable.

Step 6: Stage for the Market

☐ Remove oversized furniture
☐ Use neutral bedding
☐ Improve lighting
☐ Remove personal photos
☐ Create inviting outdoor space

The goal is to help buyers imagine their life in the home — not yours.

Final Week: Launch Strategy

At this stage:

• Professional photos are scheduled

• Pricing is finalized

• Marketing is prepared

• Showing plan is in place

When the home hits the market, it should feel intentional — not rushed.

Why 90 Days Works

Giving yourself 90 days:

• Reduces emotional overwhelm

• Prevents rushed repairs

• Allows thoughtful pricing strategy

• Maximizes buyer appeal

• Increases negotiating power

Homes that are prepared properly often:

• Sell faster

• Receive stronger offers

• Experience smoother inspections

Final Thoughts

Getting your home ready isn’t about cleaning for company. It’s about preparing for a financial transaction.

The earlier you start, the more control you maintain.

If you’re considering selling in the next 3–6 months, the best first step is a planning conversation. Even if you’re “just thinking about it,” building a timeline now can prevent stress later.

Preparation isn’t just helpful — it’s powerful.