How far in advance should a seller begin prep for a spring launch?

Ideally, 90–120 days before list date. Luxury listings require coordination among painters, landscapers, handymen, photographers, and stagers—all of whom book early.

The timeline:

• January: Pre-inspection, project bids, and cosmetic upgrades.

• February: Staging consult, photography scheduling, marketing prep.

• March: Launch.

This buffer allows flexibility if weather delays exterior work or supply issues arise. Sellers also appreciate time to declutter thoughtfully—especially long-term homeowners downsizing after decades.

For example, in Crocker Highlands, where many homes exceed 3,000 sq ft, two full weekends may be needed just to sort storage and personal items.

Bonus: Early prep lets you list off-market for agent previews or “coming soon” buzz, creating pent-up demand before you go live.

The earlier we start, the smoother—and more profitable—your sale will be. Let’s map your personalized spring prep calendar.