Preparing to list does not mean doing every possible project. I'd start by identifying what needs attention, what requires further advice and what can be presented clearly, keeping your time and spending priorities in view.
The latest market report covers Reston single-family homes, condominiums, townhouses and apartments. The number of homes listed for sale in the latest market report was 216. The typical asking price among homes listed for sale was $532,500. Homes sold for an average of 99.3% of their asking prices.
Neither the asking price nor the average percentage of asking price that homes sold for establishes a preparation budget. I suggest choosing projects by their purpose and cost rather than assuming every improvement will pay for itself. Repair questions, photographs and the times the home can be shown belong in the same preparation discussion.
Walk through the home with me to identify condition questions and separate necessary investigation from optional cosmetic work. Obtain estimates for proposed repairs before deciding which projects fit your budget and schedule. Set an order for repairs, cleaning and photographs, then establish workable times the home can be shown.
