COLUMBUS, Ohio - With spring just one month away, the Ohio Department of Commerce Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing is highlighting some last-minute steps homeowners can take to maximize interest and value in the event they're considering selling their home during the upcoming busy homebuying season.

Spring is traditionally considered one of the most active times for real estate transactions because families prefer to move during summer break, allowing closings to take place before school resumes in the fall. As a result, inventory also tends to increase during the spring.

Division Superintendent Daphne Hawk says potential home sellers should keep that increased competition in mind as they consider ways to make their properties as attractive as possible to potential buyers.

"The weeks leading up to spring are critical for homeowners who want to maximize their home's appeal," Hawk said. "Taking time now to address key details can make the selling process smoother and help attract serious buyers once the temperatures and housing market begin to heat up."

Tips for Getting Your Home Market-Ready:

• Declutter and Deep Clean: Remove excess items, get rid of clutter, and give your home a thorough cleaning to create a fresh, inviting space.
• Boost Curb Appeal: Tidy up landscaping, clean walkways, and consider a fresh coat of paint on the front door to make a strong first impression.
• Address Minor Repairs: Fix leaky faucets, replace burned-out lightbulbs, and touch up paint to show buyers the home is well-maintained. This will also help reduce the number of items that need to be addressed following a home inspection.
• Gather Documentation: Organize records related to recent upgrades, warranties, and maintenance history to provide potential buyers with confidence.
• Consult a Licensed Real Estate Professional: A licensed agent can help you price your home competitively and navigate the complex selling process to ensure it adheres to the law.
• If Selling Yourself, Do Research: If you plan on selling your home yourself via a "For Sale by Owner" arrangement, be sure to research and understand local, state and federal fair housing regulations, including those related to exclusionary advertising or unequal access to property showings, both of which can lead to substantial penalties.

Homeowners can verify that any real estate professional they work with is actively licensed in Ohio by using the Division's License Lookup tool at https://elicense.lpi.ohio.gov. This ensures transparency and protects consumers during one of the largest financial transactions they'll make.

For more resources and consumer tips, visit the Division's website here.

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About the Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing

The Division of Real Estate & Professional Licensing is part of the Ohio Department of Commerce. The department is Ohio's chief regulatory agency, focused on promoting prosperity and protecting what matters most to Ohioans. We ensure businesses follow the laws that help them create jobs and keep Ohioans safe. To learn more about what we do, visit our website at com.ohio.gov.