Back-to-School, Back to Business: Prep Your Home for the Fall Market Surge

by Craig Hogan & Rudy Zavala

Fall is the New Spring!

With school back in session and summer distractions fading, now is the perfect time to refocus. For homeowners considering a sale, fall presents a window of opportunity before the holidays. And if you’re preparing to list, smart, strategic improvements can add significant value—and help your property stand out when buyers return to the market.

1. Boost Curb | Front Door Appeal – Because First Impressions Still Sell Homes

In an earlier blog, we explored how “a fresh coat of paint on the front door, new address numbers, or seasonal planters can create a moment buyers remember.” In the city, that first impression often begins the moment a buyer steps off the elevator—so your apartment door matters just as much. Of course, there are restrictions on what you can do for a hallway door, so the default is clean and welcoming. A clean, freshly painted door, modern hardware, and stylish unit numbers can set the tone before they even see the inside. If you have a private landing or hallway space, keep it uncluttered and well-lit. These small details often create lasting impressions—and in some cases, offer a return that rivals bigger ticket upgrades.

2. Neutral Paint Still Wins—And It Photographs Beautifully

A fresh paint job is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to update your home. But not all hues are created equal. To break down which tones sell best: think “soft whites, warm greiges, and barely-there taupes” that feel both fresh and timeless. These colors allow buyers to project their style—and ensure your property shines in listing photos and video tours.

3. Declutter, Deep Clean, and Stage with Intention

Don’t underestimate the power of a clean, edited space. The mission is to “Declutter for a Faster Sale, “the goal isn’t to make your home look unlived-in—it’s to create room for someone else to imagine themselves living there.”

Now is the time to edit ruthlessly. As the title of the popular book says: Nobody Wants Your Sh*t—and neither do potential buyers. Overcrowded rooms and personal collections distract from your home’s best features. Whether you hire a professional or tackle it on your own, less is more—and clean is non-negotiable. One well-placed chair and a vase of flowers will do more for your listing than any gallery wall ever could. Professional-level clean is non-negotiable. And staging has never been more important.

Staged homes generally sell faster and for more money than unstaged homes. Specifically, staged homes sell 73% faster and for 5-10% more, according to NAR. Additionally, staged homes often lead to a higher return on investment, with some studies showing a 586% ROI, according to the Real Estate Staging Association.

Key Stats:

Faster Sales: Staged homes sell 73% faster than unstaged homes.
Higher Sale Prices: Staged homes can sell for 5-10% more than unstaged homes.
Increased Buyer Interest: 82% of buyers' agents say staging helps clients better visualize the property as their future home, according to the National Association of Realtors.
Return on Investment: Staging can yield a 5-15% increase in the final sale price.

4. Set the Mood with Scent—The Invisible First Impression

In “The Scent of Sold”, we dove into how scent impacts emotional response—before buyers even see the kitchen. “A crisp, clean aroma can trigger feelings of comfort and safety, while a heavy fragrance or pet smell can distract and deflate enthusiasm.” Consider using subtle scents like fresh linen, soft citrus, or light woodsy notes to enhance your showing strategy.

5. Target the Right Upgrades—Small Projects, Big Payoff

Not every renovation makes sense before selling, but some updates pack a punch. Swap outdated lighting, refresh cabinet hardware, or add smart thermostats. These seemingly small touches suggest thoughtful care. If you're considering bigger projects, stick to the winners: garage doors, entryways, and minor kitchen facelifts. These consistently show strong ROI and help homes sell faster—especially in a competitive market.

The Bottom Line: Fall Is the New Spring

This is the moment buyers re-enter the market with focus. With your home cleaned, staged, refreshed, and subtly scented for success, you’ll be ahead of the curve before the next market surge hits. Whether you’re just starting to prep or you’re almost ready to list, there’s still time to get it right this season.

Ready to Sell Smarter?

Let’s talk strategy. From staging and scent to pricing and marketing, we help sellers make the right moves at the right time.
Connect with us today to schedule your seller consultation—because timing matters, and so does who you work with.

— Craig Hogan & Rudy Zavala
Hogan Zavala Group | Engel & Völkers Chicago

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