If you’re planning to sell your home in the next one to five years, now is the perfect time to start preparing. Small, strategic improvements made early can dramatically increase your home’s resale value and make the selling process smoother when the time comes. Also, you will enjoy your home more in the meantime. Here’s how Ann Arbor homeowners can get started.
1. Start with Maintenance and Repairs
- A well-maintained home gives buyers confidence and helps you avoid costly surprises during inspection.
Schedule a pre-listing inspection well before listing to identify aging systems—roof, HVAC, foundation, plumbing, and electrical. - Fix minor issues early like cracked caulk, leaky faucets, or peeling paint before they become bigger problems.
- Keep up with annual maintenance on your furnace, air conditioner, and water heater.
- Check for moisture and drainage issues, especially in basements and crawl spaces, an Ann Arbor concern due to seasonal humidity.
2. Focus on Smart, High-ROI Updates
- Not all renovations pay off equally. Prioritize timeless, energy-efficient updates that will still look fresh in a few years.
Kitchen refreshes: Update hardware, lighting, or countertops rather than a full remodel. - Bathroom updates: New vanities, fixtures, mirrors, and tile grout make a big difference.
- Energy efficiency: Upgrade windows, insulation, and thermostats to appeal to today’s eco-conscious buyers.
- Flooring: Replace worn carpet with durable LVP or refinish hardwoods.
- Exterior curb appeal: Fresh paint, door hardware and exterior light fixtures, or landscaping upgrades add instant value.
- Tip: Avoid trendy finishes: choose neutral colors and classic design choices that age well.
3. Build Long-Term Curb Appeal
- Curb appeal matures just like landscaping. Plant perennials, shrubs, and trees now so they’ll be full and healthy when it’s time to sell.
- Maintain clean mulch beds and consistent edging.Reseal or repave driveways and fix cracks in walkways.
- Add updated lighting, house numbers, and a welcoming front entry.
Explore neighborhoods with standout curb appeal: Ann Arbor Neighborhood Guides
4. Declutter, Organize, and Simplify
- A clutter-free home feels larger and more relaxing. Use your 3–5 year window to downsize gradually.
Start donating, selling, or storing unused items now. - Organize basements, garages, and closets—buyers love visible storage.
- Rearrange furniture to improve flow and make rooms feel open and functional.
Related resource: Decluttering your home.
5. Keep Records of Upgrades and Improvements
- Buyers and appraisers love documentation. Keep all receipts, warranties, and permits in a single binder or digital file.
Take “before and after” photos of your updates. - Track costs for each project: many may qualify for capital gains tax deductions later.
- Document regular servicing for HVAC, roofs, and appliances.
6. Watch the Market and Consult an Agent Early
- Even if you’re several years out, an Ann Arbor real estate expert can guide your improvement priorities based on what’s trending locally.
- Watch neighborhood listings to see what buyers respond to.
- Keep an eye on mortgage rates and inventory trends to time your sale for maximum value.
- Reach out to the Piper Partners Team 1–2 years before you plan to sell for a personalized equity analysis and regular market updates.
Bottom Line
For homeowners who have been in their homes for a long time, selling can feel like a big move, but it also presents a huge opportunity. With years of equity built up, you have more leeway in pricing, negotiating, and making the sale work in your favor. Starting now: preparing, upgrading, choosing the right partner, can help turn that opportunity into real value.
To learn more about selling your home read more here.
