The calendar may say November, but if you’re thinking of selling your home in Milwaukee this spring, it’s time to start planning! In Milwaukee, the “HOT” spring market often kicks off as early as December, and if you’re not ready by January, you risk missing out on the peak selling window between January and April. To make sure you capitalize on this prime selling season, here’s how to prepare your home for a successful sale in 2025.
Why Start Now?
Contractors and supplies are in high demand, making it crucial to give yourself plenty of lead time for any repairs, updates, or staging. Even in a hot market, buyers are hesitant to pay top dollar for homes that aren’t move-in ready. That means getting your home into top-notch condition before the new year is a must. At Powers Realty Group, we’re already preparing homes for the 2025 season—don’t miss out on the opportunity to position your property for success!
Milwaukee's Spring Market Starts Early
The spring housing market in Milwaukee often begins as soon as January 1st, and in recent years, it has even started as early as December. It’s true—buyers are actively searching even in the coldest months of the year. That’s why we’re meeting with sellers now to prepare for a successful 2025.
How to Prepare Your Home for the 2025 Selling Season
1. Take Exterior Photos Now
Don’t wait for snow to cover your yard! Take advantage of the remaining fall colors and green grass by capturing exterior photos now. This will ensure your home stands out online with beautiful, vibrant images when the market is full of snow-covered listings. Consider investing in high-quality images like:
Twilight shots for that cozy evening look.
HD exterior photos.
Aerial drone videos showcasing the entire property.
Aerial stills for a complete view.
2. Develop a List of Improvements
This step takes longer than you might think! Buyers want a detailed list of the improvements you’ve made to your home. Include everything, from freshly painted rooms to major repairs like new windows or roofing. Be thorough, add dates, and provide receipts or lien waivers for each significant repair. Creating a “whole house book” with before-and-after photos can be a great way to highlight the care you’ve put into maintaining your home.
3. Get a Pre-Listing Inspection
Did you know that around 20% of accepted offers fall through due to inspection issues? Avoid surprises by scheduling a pre-listing inspection now. Address any repairs before your home hits the market, so buyers can move forward with confidence. Don’t forget to schedule regular maintenance like HVAC and chimney cleaning—these records will give potential buyers peace of mind that your home is well cared for.
4. Take Care of Handyman Projects, Paint, and Carpet
Make sure your home looks fresh and inviting by completing minor repairs and updates. Book your handyman now, as contractors get busy quickly, especially around the holidays. Freshen up your paint, particularly any white woodwork, and replace carpeting in high-traffic areas like bedrooms and family rooms. New carpet should be the last task you complete—schedule installation about a week before your listing goes live. Consider these other to-dos before winter arrives:
Clear out the garage.
Clean the gutters.
Donate furniture items.
Schedule junk removal.
Declutter and clean the basement.
Paint the basement floor for a clean, fresh look.
Deep clean everything—buyers are highly sensitive to cleanliness!
5. Winterize Vacant Properties
If you plan to sell a vacant home in 2025, winterizing is key to preventing cold-weather damage. This process includes shutting off exterior water, draining pipes, and keeping the heat on at 55-65 degrees to maintain a safe temperature. It’s an easy step that protects your investment during the colder months.
Ready to Get Top Dollar in 2025?
We’re heading into another fantastic year for sellers, and Powers Realty Group is here to help you make the most of it! If you want to maximize your home's value, don’t wait—reach out now. We can connect you with trusted handymen, painters, and carpet installers to ensure your home is ready for market. Call Suzanne Powers today at 414-870-7175, and let’s make 2025 your best year yet!
Happy Selling, and let’s go!
