If you are planning on selling your home within the next 12 months, it is important to start getting your home ready to be put on the market today. There are many things to update and improve that could help to make a home more appealing to buyers or increase its market value. 

Start By Adding Curb Appeal

The first thing that buyers are going to see when they drive by your house is the yard and the home's exterior. If the outside of a home looks dull or poorly maintained, buyers will likely assume that the inside of the home hasn't been cared for either. 

There are many ways to add curb appeal to a home. For instance, you could plant a tree, add colorful flowers, or seal the driveway. You can also add a fresh coat of paint to the front door, garage door, or siding. Be sure to remove any dead trees, weeds, or anything else that presents the house in a poor light.

Consider Repairing or Replacing Major Components 

If your roof is approaching the end of its useful life, it may be a good idea to put a new one on. It can also be a good idea to replace an older furnace or central air conditioning system. Taking these steps can help a home to run more efficiently while also providing peace of mind to the next homeowner. Generally speaking, you'll be able to recoup 40 to 60% of the cost of making these improvements when you sell the home.

Remodel the Kitchen or Bathroom

The kitchen and bathroom are two of the most important spaces in a home. This is because most buyers want a space where they can cook and entertain family members with ease. A new toilet or shower can reduce water usage while making it easier and more comfortable to get ready for the day or relax at night. Ultimately, people will pay a premium for creature comforts that make their lives easier in any tangible way.

Replace Your Current Lights With LED Bulbs.

LED bulbs use less energy, create brighter light, and last for up to 10,000 hours before they need to be replaced. In addition, consider adding sensors in each room so that lights go on and off when people enter or leave a given space. 

Replace the Carpets or Refinish the Hardwood Floors

Old carpets may be full of dust, pollen, or mold that can be easily be spread throughout a home. Hardwood floors that have scuffs or scratches on them can be visually unappealing to a buyer. Therefore, it can be in your best interest to purchase a new carpet or refinish any hardwood floors that are currently in your home. 

Add a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat can be an affordable upgrade that makes it easier to keep your home at a reasonable temperature at all times. You can set it at a higher temperature when everyone is at home and a lower temperature at night or when everyone is sleeping. During the summer, you can ensure that the house is cooler when the family is home and slightly warmer when the family is at work or at the beach.

The process of selling a home typically begins long before it gets put on the market. It is imperative that you make upgrades or repairs now so that a buyer is more confident about making an offer later. Ideally, you will have the home inspected as part of the sale process so that you can fix significant issues before a potential buyer finds them for you.