
If selling your home is something you see happening in the next one to three years, you’re in a great position — even if you’re not ready to make any moves yet.
This is the ideal window to prepare intentionally without pressure, panic, or unnecessary upgrades.
Here’s what actually makes a difference during this phase.
1️⃣ Focus on Maintenance, Not Major Upgrades
One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is assuming they need to start renovating years in advance.
In reality, consistent maintenance does far more for long-term value than big projects.
Staying ahead of things like:
- HVAC servicing
- plumbing issues
- roof and exterior upkeep
helps prevent surprises later and shows buyers the home has been well cared for.
2️⃣ Keep Records (Future You Will Thank You)
Buyers love clarity.
Keeping simple records of:
- repairs
- replacements
- service history
makes your home easier to understand and trust when it’s time to sell.
Even a basic digital folder goes a long way.
Here’s a simple tracker to use for your improvements.
3️⃣ Pay Attention to Your Neighborhood (Casually)
You don’t need to watch the market daily — but being generally aware helps.
Noticing things like:
- what homes similar to yours are selling for
- how quickly they’re moving
- what features buyers respond to
gives you a realistic sense of what matters in your area.
4️⃣ Avoid Over-Investing Too Early
Big renovations often don’t deliver the return homeowners expect — especially if done years before selling.
Before starting any major project, it helps to ask:
- Will this improve my day-to-day life now?
- Is this typical for my neighborhood?
- Could this wait until closer to selling?
Thoughtful timing matters.
5️⃣ Give Yourself Flexibility
Selling in 1–3 years doesn’t require a rigid plan.
Life changes — and flexibility is one of your biggest advantages right now.
Staying financially comfortable and mentally prepared is far more valuable than checking off a long to-do list too early.
You don’t need to turn your home into a full-time project to be “ready.”
Small, intentional steps taken over time often lead to smoother, more confident sales — without the burnout.
If selling in the next few years is on your radar and you want help thinking through what makes sense for your home — now or later — I’m always happy to talk it through.
No pressure. Just clarity 💚
Hey there!
I'm Brooke and I help first-time buyers, homeowners, and sellers in South Austin, Dripping Springs, and Kyle navigate real estate with guidance and education—so you feel confident every step of the way.
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512-787-8557
2021 Guadalupe St., Ste 260
Austin, TX 78705
brooke@brookepearsonrealtor.com
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