Summer is more than just backyard barbecues and beach trips. It's also prime time for buying or selling a home. Whether you're planning to list your house or you're in the market to buy, prepping for summer goes beyond mowing the lawn and dusting off the patio furniture.
If you're considering diving into the real estate game this season, here's what you need to know to get your home (and yourself) in top shape before and during the buying process.
Get Your Finances in Order
Before you even start browsing listings or hiring a realtor, take a good look at your financial situation. That means reviewing your credit score, calculating how much you can afford, and understanding your debt-to-income ratio. Mortgage lenders will look at all these factors when you apply for a loan.
It’s a good idea to get pre-approved for a mortgage early in the process. Pre-approval gives you a realistic idea of your budget and shows sellers you’re serious. It can also speed things up once you find a place you love.
Mortgage companies can get swamped during peak home-buying season, so give yourself extra time for paperwork and approvals.
Create a Wish List
Think about what features matter most to you in a home, especially in the summer. Do you dream of a backyard with room for a grill and outdoor dining? A sunroom? Central air conditioning?
Summer is the perfect time to tour homes because you get a clear sense of how the property handles heat, natural light, and outdoor space. It’s also a good opportunity to assess neighbourhood activity and how loud (or peaceful) your potential street is when everyone’s outside.
Don’t forget to look beyond the pretty staging. Check out insulation, HVAC systems, window seals, the roof, and possible home pest inspections—these are critical during warmer months.
Work with a Knowledgeable Real Estate Agent
A skilled agent can make or break your summer buying experience. Look for someone local who knows the market, understands seasonal trends, and has experience with summer transactions. They will help you navigate open houses, bidding wars, and contracts, all while keeping things on schedule.
They will also know how to time your purchase so you can move in before the school year or avoid paying double housing costs.
Prepare to Move Quickly
The summer market moves fast. Homes can get multiple offers in a matter of days, sometimes even hours. You’ll need to act decisively. Have your pre-approval letter ready, be flexible with showings, and don’t get too emotionally attached until the offer is accepted.
Make sure you’ve budgeted for inspections, appraisals, closing costs and any other hidden costs that can sneak up on you if you’re not prepared.
Get Your Current Home Summer-Ready (If You’re Selling)
If you’re selling your home before buying a new one, presentation is everything, especially in the summer. Curb appeal matters, so mow the lawn, trim the bushes, and plant a few flowers if possible. Power wash the exterior and clean the windows so your home looks its best from the outside in.
Inside, keep things cool and inviting. Turn on the AC or fans before showings, declutter main living spaces, and consider neutral staging to help buyers imagine themselves in your space. Natural light is your best friend this time of year, so open those curtains and blinds.
Think Ahead to Moving Day
Summer moves can be hot and hectic. Book moving trucks and services early since they fill up fast during this season. Make a checklist of everything you'll need to transfer, such as utilities, internet, insurance, and change-of-address forms.
If you’re moving with kids or pets, plan for ways to keep them safe and cool during the process. Hydration and shade go a long way on a 90-degree moving day.
Summer Is a Season of Opportunity
Summer is a great time to buy a home; it’s warm, schedules are more flexible, and you get a full sense of a property’s potential. It is also one of the busiest times in the real estate world, so being prepared is important. From financial readiness to smart house-hunting strategies, a little planning goes a long way toward making your summer home goals a reality.
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