If you’re planning to move in 2026, the best time to get ready isn’t when the Christmas tree comes down. It’s right now.
Most homeowners underestimate just how much smoother and more profitable a sale can be when a little groundwork happens before the New Year rush. The homes that sell quickly in the spring are rarely an overnight success. They’ve been quietly prepared, improved and organised long before the “For Sale” board goes up.
Here are five smart moves that will put you in a strong position for a successful start to 2026.
See your home like a buyer would
We all stop noticing the small imperfections in our own homes, but buyers notice everything. Walk through each room as if you were viewing it for the first time. Are the hallways dark? Is the furniture making the space feel cramped? A few simple tweaks such as neutral paint, clean skirting boards and clutter-free surfaces can make your home feel brighter and more inviting without spending much at all.
Make your kerb appeal count
First impressions matter. Buyers often decide how they feel about a property before they even reach the front door. A tidy garden, a swept path, a freshly painted door, updated house numbers and working external lights all help create confidence. These small touches show that the home has been well cared for, and that reassurance often leads to stronger offers.
Organise the paperwork
You’ll eventually need certificates and documents for boilers, windows, electrical work, planning permissions and guarantees. Start gathering them now. Sellers who are organised from the outset help keep the legal process smooth and prevent delays later on. Buyers also trust sellers who demonstrate good preparation.
Invite an agent in early
A good local agent will know exactly what buyers in Thetford are looking for right now. They can help you understand what’s worth improving and what isn’t, so you’re not spending money unnecessarily. Early advice also gives you a clear sense of timing, pricing and strategy long before launch day.
Map out your timeline
If your aim is to move by spring 2026, it helps to work backwards. Photography and staging in December, launch in January, offers agreed in early spring, completion by early summer. Planning ahead keeps the whole process calmer and far less stressful.
Final thought
Selling your home rewards early preparation. A little thought and effort before Christmas can mean less pressure, faster results and a better price when you decide to move. When January arrives, it’s not the sellers who start preparing who succeed. It’s the ones who already have.
If you’d like tailored advice on getting your Thetford home ready for a move next year, we’re here to help.
Article by Andrew Overman | Partner | Location Location East
