Make 2026 Your Year to Sell—Start Preparing Now
If you’re planning to sell your home in the St. Croix Valley in 2026, it might feel like you have plenty of time—but the truth is, what you do this year can make a big difference when it’s time to list.
Here in the St. Croix Valley real estate market—covering Hudson, WI, Stillwater, MN, Lake Elmo, MN, and Somerset, WI—spring is always the busiest and most competitive season for home sales. If you want your property to stand out and attract serious buyers, the smartest move you can make is to start prepping now.
As Realtor.com explains:
“If you’re aiming to sell in 2026, now is the time to start preparing, especially if you want to maximize the spring market’s higher buyer activity.”
A little prep now means less stress later—and a better return when your home hits the market.
Why Starting Early Matters for St. Croix Valley Sellers
Across the St. Croix Valley housing market, buyers have more homes to choose from than in years past. That means sellers need to go the extra mile to make their home stand out.
You don’t have to take on a full remodel—but a few strategic updates can go a long way toward boosting your home’s appeal and value. Starting early lets you space out projects, secure local contractors, and stay within budget without the stress of rushing before spring.
Here are some high-impact updates to consider:
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Repair small issues like leaky faucets or squeaky doors
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Repaint your front door or update exterior trim for curb appeal
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Upgrade lighting, cabinet hardware, or fixtures
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Add fresh interior paint or replace worn flooring
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Schedule roof, window, or HVAC maintenance if needed
These small investments can make a big difference when buyers start touring homes next spring in Hudson, Stillwater, Lake Elmo, and Somerset.
Get Local Advice from a St. Croix Valley Realtor
The St. Croix Valley market is unique—each community has its own buyer trends and pricing dynamics. What adds value in Stillwater might not be as impactful in Somerset, and vice versa.
That’s why it’s so valuable to bring in a local real estate expert early. A knowledgeable St. Croix Valley Realtor can help you:
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Identify what today’s buyers are looking for in your neighborhood
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Prioritize updates with the best return on investment
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Avoid overspending on unnecessary projects
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Connect you with trusted contractors and service providers in the area
Getting professional input early ensures your time and budget are focused where it counts most—so you can list with confidence when 2026 arrives.
Bottom Line
If your plan is to sell your St. Croix Valley home in 2026, now’s the perfect time to start preparing. Getting an early jump gives you the flexibility to plan improvements, organize your timeline, and hit the market ahead of the competition.
Want to know which home improvement projects are giving sellers the best return in Hudson, Stillwater, Lake Elmo, and Somerset right now? Let’s connect! We’d love to help you create a personalized plan to get your home market-ready and maximize your results next year.
