Building a new home? The final hurdle is selling the one you’re in. Spring and summer bring more buyers – and more competition. These quick wins help your home stand out and sell faster (and for more money).
1. Boost Your Curb Appeal
Buyers shop with their eyes first – especially in summer.
Do this:
Add fresh, seasonal plants.
Clean up beds and replace anything wilted or past its prime.
Why it matters: Healthy plants = healthy home. Curb appeal is the cheapest way to beat the competition.
2. Make Your Lawn Look “Model-Home Ready”
A lush lawn signals care – and buyers notice.
Do this:
Water deeply 1–2 times a week.
Mow high with a sharp blade.
Why it matters: Green grass sells homes. Brown or patchy lawns don’t.
3. Keep It Cool
When buyers walk in, comfort matters more than your electric bill.
Do this:
Run the AC a little colder than usual during showings.
Why it matters: If your home feels hot or stuffy, buyers mentally subtract value.
4. Let the Light In
Summer light makes your home feel bigger and brighter.
Do this:
Open blinds and curtains well before showings.
Check rooms in full sunlight to catch scuffs, dust, or window streaks.
Make sure the view out the window looks clean and intentional.
Why it matters: Bright homes feel newer – and new sells.
5. Eliminate Odors (All of Them)
Your nose gets used to smells. Buyers’ noses don’t.
Do this:
Invite a “brutally honest friend” to sniff-test your home.
Deep clean carpets, soft surfaces, and pet areas if needed.
Why it matters: Odors kill offers faster than any cosmetic flaw.
Bottom line: Staging your current home well helps you get to the fun part faster – unpacking in your brand-new build. These small steps can speed your sale and boost your final price, giving you more to invest in upgrades and features in your new home.
Haven’t found that perfect new home yet? Search the comprehensive new home listings on NewHomeSource.
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Julie Gordey
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.