I get this question a lot: "Kristi, we're thinking about selling in the next few months—where do we even start?"

It's a great question, because what you do first can save you thousands of dollars and weeks of stress down the road. Here's what I walk every seller through when they're in that 90-day window.

Get Clear on Your Timeline (Really Clear)

"In the next few months" means different things to different people. Are you trying to close before school starts in August? Do you need to list by April to catch the spring market? Are you waiting on something specific—a bonus, a job start date, repairs to finish?

Your timeline shapes everything else. If you've got flexibility, we can be strategic about when we list. If you're working with a hard deadline, we might need to move faster on some of these steps.

Talk to a Lender Before You Do Anything Else

Even if you've owned your home for years and think you know what you can afford next, the market has changed. A quick conversation with a lender shows you exactly what you're working with and can uncover options you didn’t know you had.

I’ve had sellers learn they could afford more than expected, or find out they needed to pay down one specific debt to qualify for their next home. Either way, you want this clarity before you list, not after you accept an offer and feel rushed to find your next place.

If you don’t already have a lender, reach out. I work with several local lenders I know, like, and trust, and I’m happy to connect you. Choosing the right lender matters. A strong lender keeps timelines on track and helps deals close smoothly. The wrong one can slow things down or even cause a deal to fall apart. Having the right lender on your team from the start can make all the difference.

Walk Your Property Like a Buyer Would

Go outside right now and look at your house like you've never seen it before. What's the first thing you notice? Peeling paint on the trim? Overgrown landscaping? A fence that's seen better days?

Curb appeal matters everywhere, but it carries extra weight in the Hill Country. Buyers are drawn to this area for the views, land, and outdoor feel. When the yard looks tired or the exterior needs attention, it costs you before the front door ever opens.

The fixes don’t have to cost a lot. Fresh mulch, trimmed trees, and a clean driveway can change the whole feel of a home. In the Hill Country, it also pays to stick with native plants that belong here. Deer-resistant and drought-tolerant plants look better long term and show buyers the yard is easy to maintain. Thoughtful updates like this boost curb appeal without adding stress, water bills, or ongoing upkeep—and they help buyers picture themselves enjoying the outdoor space right away.

Have the Hard Conversation About Repairs

Nobody wants to hear that their HVAC system is on its last legs or that the roof needs replacing. But I promise you: it's better to know now than to find out during the inspection period when you're under contract.

Consider getting a pre-listing inspection. It costs a few hundred dollars, but it tells you exactly what a buyer's inspector will find. Then you can decide what to fix, what to disclose, and what to price accordingly. No surprises, no scrambling, no deals falling apart at the last minute.

Start Decluttering (Yes, Already)

I know you're not moving for three months. Do it anyway.

Decluttering takes longer than you think, and it's one of those things that's easier to do in stages than all at once right before listing. Start with closets, garages, and storage areas. Donate what you don't need. Rent a storage unit if you have to.

Buyers need to see themselves in your space, and that's hard to do when every surface is covered and every closet is bursting. Plus, you'll need to pack eventually anyway—might as well get a head start.

Don't Make Big Changes Without Talking to Me First

I've seen sellers spend $15,000 on a kitchen renovation that didn't add $15,000 to their sale price. I've seen people paint every room a trendy color that actually turned buyers off.

Before you invest in any major updates, let's talk. Some improvements give you a great return. Others don't. I can help you figure out where your money will actually make a difference.

Let's Make a Plan

If you're in that 90-day window, let's sit down and walk through your specific situation. Every property is different, every seller's timeline is different, and every market moment is different.

I'll give you honest answers about what needs to happen, what the market looks like right now in your area, and what kind of timeline we're realistically looking at.

No pressure, no sales pitch—just a conversation about what makes sense for you.

Ready to start the conversation? Send me a message or give me a call. Let's figure out your next move.

Ready to Make Dripping Springs Your Home?

Whether you're considering a move to the area or simply want to explore available properties in Dripping Springs, Driftwood, or Wimberley, I'd love to help you discover your perfect Hill Country home. The lifestyle here is unmatched—and the local activities are just the beginning.

Contact me today to learn more about real estate opportunities in the Dripping Springs area. Let's find the home where you can enjoy all these amazing local activities right in your own backyard.

830-708-3818
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