Here is the revised blog post regarding preparing now for a 2026 sale. I have integrated the Calls to Action (CTAs) and service areas to position you as the proactive partner they need right now.
Planning to Sell in 2026? Why Your Prep Starts Now
You’ve got big plans for 2026, and if selling your home is one of them, what you do now could make all the difference. Spring is traditionally the busiest season in real estate — and as Realtor.com reminds sellers:
“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.”
The earlier you begin, the easier it’ll be to manage repairs, decluttering, and small touch-ups — and the more polished your home will look when it’s time to list.
Don't know where to start?
Call Kim at 206-225-8325 for a free consultation. We can walk through your home together and create a stress-free timeline.
Why Starting Now Gives You an Edge
As Kim Morgan Storey, the Top 1 Real Estate Agent serving Tacoma, Puyallup, Auburn, Sumner, SeaTac, Des Moines, Burien, Normandy Park, Lake Tapps, and Bonney Lake, I tell my clients the same thing: in today’s market, preparation matters more than ever.
With more homes for sale than we’ve seen in years, buyers have plenty of choices — which means your home needs to stand out. That doesn’t mean you need to take on a full renovation, but it does mean tackling key projects ahead of time.
By starting this year, you’ll:
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Have more time to spread out repairs and upgrades.
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Avoid last-minute stress before listing.
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Find reliable contractors without paying “rush job” premiums.
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Make thoughtful decisions about which improvements will bring the best return.
Wondering which repairs will actually increase your list price? Call Kim for a market analysis. I can show you exactly what buyers in Auburn and Sumner are willing to pay extra for right now.
Get an Agent’s Expertise Early
Before you start knocking down walls or replacing floors, talk to a local real estate expert early in the process. A seasoned agent can help you determine which updates will actually move the needle in your market — and which ones won’t.
According to Realtor.com, sellers who bring an agent in sooner enjoy smoother, more successful transactions overall. The right agent can help you:
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Identify what local buyers are prioritizing right now.
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Recommend repairs or upgrades that will add real value.
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Prioritize your project list if you can’t do everything at once.
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Connect you with vetted, local contractors who can deliver quality work.
Need a contractor you can trust? Call Kim at 206-225-8325. I have a network of reliable professionals in SeaTac and Burien ready to help you get your home market-ready.
What Many Sellers Are Updating Now
Research from the National Association of Realtors (NAR) highlights common projects that agents are recommending ahead of today’s listings — including exterior paint refreshes, kitchen touch-ups, bathroom improvements, lighting upgrades, and minor landscaping enhancements.
But the right strategy depends on your neighborhood. For instance:
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In Burien, Normandy Park, and Des Moines, coastal charm and curb appeal go a long way.
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In Puyallup and Sumner, buyers love updated kitchens and flexible spaces.
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In Lake Tapps and Bonney Lake, outdoor living upgrades can make a big impression.
Call Kim for a unique marketing plan for getting your home sold. I will tailor a strategy that highlights your home's specific strengths to the right buyers.
The Bottom Line
If you’re planning to sell in 2026, don’t wait until spring to get started. Begin now, and you’ll have time to prep strategically, avoid unnecessary stress, and attract more buyers when it matters most.
Call Kim Morgan Storey today at 206-225-8325. Let’s start your 2026 home-selling plan today.
