When to Start Preparing Your Home for the Spring Real Estate Market in Sonoma + Marin

Most homeowners think the spring market starts when the flowers bloom and the “For Sale” signs start popping up around Petaluma, Santa Rosa, and Marin.

In reality, the spring market starts months earlier — in quiet planning conversations happening right now.

As local Sonoma County realtors, we’re already meeting with homeowners who are not ready to list yet, but want to be fully prepared when the time comes.

And that preparation is often what separates a home that sits from a home that sells quickly with strong offers.

Why Preparation Matters More as Inventory Increases

As we move closer to spring, more homes naturally come to market. Buyers have more options, which means presentation and condition matter even more.

The homes that stand out are the ones where the homeowners took time to prepare in advance.

What We’re Advising Homeowners to Do Right Now

Here are a few of the most impactful steps we’re walking through during pre-listing consultations:

• Refresh interior paint with buyer-friendly tones

• Address small deferred maintenance (squeaky doors, loose handles, touch-ups)

• Improve curb appeal before landscaping fully blooms

• Conduct a pre-listing walkthrough to avoid surprises during escrow

These small steps often lead to faster sales, stronger offers, and smoother transactions.

If Selling Is a “Maybe” This Year, This Is the Right Time

Even if selling is still a possibility and not a firm decision, this is the ideal time to start the conversation and create a plan.

By the time spring arrives, you’ll be ahead of the market instead of trying to catch up to it.

We’re realtors, moms, locals, and dog lovers serving Sonoma County and Marin County, who love sharing everything about where we live and the neighborhoods we explore. Follow along by signing up for our weekly newsletter with local favorites and the latest in real estate.