| If you're thinking about selling your home in 2026, now is the perfect time to start preparing.The National Association of Realtors forecasts a 14% jump in home sales next year, along with a 4% rise in home prices nationally. For Orange County homeowners, the opportunity could be even stronger. Markets like Laguna Hills saw +7% and Dana Point +8% in sale prices annually over the 12 months ending October 2025, compared to about 3% nationally. While no one has a crystal ball, current trends suggest preparing early for what could be a busier, more competitive spring market. |
Starting early gives you time to tackle preparations without the pressure of a looming listing date. Begin by creating a rough outline of key dates and milestones for your sale. Think about when you'd ideally like to list, close, and move. This timeline helps you work backwards to plan decluttering, repairs, and staging.
Decluttering is one of the most valuable early steps. Go through closets, garages, and storage areas to identify items you don't need or use often. Store or donate these belongings now so there's less to handle when showings begin. A decluttered home not only shows better but also makes packing easier when the time comes.
Most importantly, choose the right top Orange County real estate agents to guide you through the process. At the Brad Feldman Group, we bring decades of combined experience, deep knowledge of Orange County neighborhoods, and connections to trusted local vendors who can help with everything from painting to landscaping. Whether you're hoping to sell in a month or a year, it's never too soon to consult your real estate advisor. We'd love to help you from beginning to end.
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Not all projects are created equal when it comes to return on investment. You don't need to completely remodel your home to get top dollar. In fact, most major renovations don't recoup their full cost at sale, so save those for your new home where you'll enjoy them. What we're looking for is bang for your buck, the strategic improvements that buyers notice and will pay more for.
Floors: Refinish hardwood floors or replace worn carpet with neutral, modern flooring. Clean, updated floors make every room feel fresh and well maintained.
Painting: Fresh interior and exterior paint is one of the most cost-effective updates you can make. Neutral colors appeal to the widest range of buyers and make spaces feel brand new.
Home Staging: Staged homes sell faster and for higher prices. Our in-house staging team knows exactly how to showcase your property's best features and help buyers envision themselves living there.
Lighting: Update outdated fixtures and maximize natural light. Bright, well-lit homes photograph beautifully and feel more inviting during showings.
Curb Appeal: First impressions matter. Landscaping, fresh mulch, a new front door, or updated garage door can dramatically increase perceived value. These exterior improvements consistently deliver strong ROI.
Outdoor Space: Clean and stage patios, decks, and yards to highlight usable outdoor living areas. Orange County buyers value indoor-outdoor flow and entertaining spaces.
Get these things right and you'll make significantly more money from your home sale. Browse our portfolio of luxury properties to see how we market and showcase homes throughout Orange County. Our top listing agents and marketing team will analyze your property to recommend the preparations and staging that work best for your specific situation.=
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Preparing your home to sell doesn't have to feel overwhelming. With the right plan, trusted advisors, and strategic improvements, you'll be positioned for success when the 2026 market heats up.
Our team has helped hundreds of Orange County families navigate this process with proven expertise in communities like Laguna Hills, Dana Point, and Laguna Niguel.
Curious what your home might be worth in today's market? Request a free home valuation to see where you stand. When you're ready to take the next step, connect with us to discuss your goals and create a customized plan for your home sale.
