Unlocking Spring Success: Why It's Not Too Late to Start Preparing Your Home Now

The azaleas are blooming, the Jazz Fest posters are up and you’re thinking about putting your New Orleans property on the market. Spring is truly the golden season for selling homes, but you may be wondering — is it too late to start preparing? The answer is no. Many homeowners might already be prepping to sell their homes — especially in NOLA’s competitive real estate market — but it’s not too late for you to use strategic tips for selling your home this spring.=

New Orleans’ iconic architectural charm, subtropical climate and strong sense of community attract homeowners seeking their dream home in Louisiana. Now is the time to give your home a market-ready makeover.

1. First Impressions Matter

Curb appeal is everything for spring buyers. You want your home’s facade to be memorable and attract potential homebuyers as they pass. Almost all realtors suggest that sellers improve curb appeal before listing. In a city with a strong front porch culture, you don’t want to be caught slacking behind other homes.

A fresh coat of paint on your front door can do wonders. Choose a curious color that complements the neighborhood’s overall appearance but still gives your home enough edge to stand out. 

Your landscaping matters, too, as no homeowner wants to feel like they have to immediately tame unruly plants after moving. Trim overgrown plants, add fresh mulch and plant native flowers like irises or gardenias to make your lawn stand out.

Another good measure is to power wash your exterior to remove any dirt, mildew or humidity-related buildup. This step can brighten up your home and draw the eyes of potential buyers. If your home is in the French Quarter, you might also want to install gas lamps and wrought-iron details for a classic old-world touch that complements the neighborhood’s identity.

2. Declutter and Deep Clean

Decluttering personal belongings, family photos and excessive furniture from your home helps buyers see potential in your space.

Aside from decluttering, you should also deep clean floors, walls and other surfaces — especially if someone has lived in the home for a while. Your home might look immaculate to you, but buyers have sharp, critical eyes. 

With New Orleans’ humid climate, deep cleaning reduces odor, mildew buildup or other moisture-related stains. Adding dehumidifiers and air purifiers can also positively impact how buyers experience your home. A clean, spacious home looks more appealing.

3. Revamp Flooring

Many buyers inspect a home’s flooring before purchasing because they’re gauging whether they will have to anticipate costly flooring replacement. Not to mention that the floor is also among the first things that welcome you into a home. Suppose your floors are outdated, scratched or worn. Investing in new flooring can significantly increase your home’s value, so it’s worth considering.

Hardwood floors have long been a fan favorite, but you have to consider the city’s humidity levels. To avoid swelling and warping, engineered wood might be a better option. Epoxy floor coatings are particularly solid against heavy foot traffic and they create a moisture-resistant barrier that prevents mold and mildew.

4. Address Necessary Repairs

Buyers appreciate a home that’s move-in ready. No one wants to plan a repair or renovation project right after moving in. Addressing minor repairs before listing can prevent potential deal-breakers down the line. These repairs include:

• Fixing leaky faucets, squeaky doors and broken light fixtures.
• Inspecting for water damage.
• Ensuring HVAC systems are in tip-top shape.

5. Stage Your Home

New Orleans homes have unique character — from exposed brick walls to wrought iron balconies — but staging can highlight the best features while making the space feel more inviting. Staging is one of the best realtor tricks to sell houses. Effective staging helps sell homes three to 30 times faster than those that are unstaged. This is because it allows buyers to imagine themselves living in the house.

Neighborhoods like Bywater and Marigny feature fun colors, which you can match if that’s where your home is located. Garden District’s shades are more serious, and elegantly traditional homes line its blocks.

To create a color balance, paint with both neutral colors and vibrant hues. This appeals to all kinds of buyers with different color preferences. You can find inspiration in the soft blues, warm terracottas and deep greens of your neighborhood. Some Jazz-themed artwork or antique-style furniture can also celebrate the city’s heritage through locally sourced decor.

6. Work With a Professional Realtor

New Orleans’ real estate market can be cutthroat. The secret to selling fast is gaining access to the experienced advice and expertise of a local realtor who can help you sell your home. Skilled real estate agents help you:

• Identify both the weak and selling points of your home. 
• Price your home competitively based on current market trends.
• Market your property effectively with professional photography, virtual tours and online listings.
• Negotiate offers strategically to ensure you get the best deal possible.

Homes sold with an agent typically sell for more than those sold by the owner alone. Research your agent well and make sure you’re confident with their real estate history, including how quickly they’re able to sell a home. 

Seize the Spring Market

If you’ve been wondering how to sell your house quickly this spring, it’s not too late to start preparing. Focusing on upgrades can help your home stand out from the rest. With the right approach, the help of a professional realtor and the right tips for selling a house, you’ll attract more curious buyers and secure the best possible price for your property.