You’ve got big plans for 2026. But what you do this year could be the difference between a smooth sale and a stressful one.

If you’re thinking of selling next spring — the busiest season in real estate — the smartest move you can make is to start prepping now. As Realtor.com says:

“If you’re aiming to sell in 2026, now is the time to start preparing, especially if you want to maximize the spring market’s higher buyer activity.”

From small repairs to touch-ups and decluttering, starting early means less stress — and a home that shines when it hits the market.

Why Starting Now Matters

Talk to any experienced agent, and they’ll tell you: you can’t afford to skip repairs in today’s market.

There are more homes for sale right now than we’ve seen in a while. Since buyers have more to choose from, your home needs to stand out. That doesn’t mean a full-on remodel — but it does mean addressing the basics.

Starting now gives you:

• More time to schedule updates at your own pace

• Less stress and no last-minute rushing

• The chance to find trusted local contractors (without paying a premium for “rush” jobs)

Whether it’s fixing a leaky faucet, repainting your front door, or finally replacing that worn roof, you’ll save money and headaches by spreading out the work now instead of cramming it all in next spring.

Get an Agent’s Advice Early

To figure out what’s worth doing — and what’s not — talk to a local agent sooner rather than later.

Realtor.com explains:

“Respondents overwhelmingly agree that both buyers and sellers enjoy a smoother, more successful experience when they start early. In fact, a recent survey reveals that, for sellers, bringing a real estate agent into the process sooner can pay off significantly.”

A skilled agent can help you:

• Understand what buyers in your area are looking for

• Identify repairs or updates that make the biggest impact

• Prioritize projects if you can’t tackle them all

• Connect with local contractors who do great work

That guidance up front can be a game changer.

What’s Worth Updating Before You Sell

To give you a rough idea, research from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) shows the most common updates agents recommend before listing.

But remember — what’s worth doing depends on your local market.

In areas with lower inventory, small touch-ups may be all it takes to make your home stand out. In more competitive markets like parts of Canby, Oregon City, or Wilsonville, investing in a few key updates can mean stronger offers and fewer days on market.

Your agent will walk you through exactly what’s right for your home and your budget.

Bottom Line

If your plan is to sell in 2026, it’s time to get serious. A little preparation this year means you’ll enter the market confident, ready, and a step ahead of other sellers who waited until January to start.

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