What can I do now to prepare to sell in a few months, or when coronavirus concerns have lessened?

While it’s still possible to sell a home, it may not be right for your situation. If you can wait, there are still steps you can take now so you’re ready to sell when the time feels right.

1. Review your timeline
How much flexibility do you have? Can you wait out the coronavirus, or if health risks and public health orders extend into the summer months or beyond, will you need to make adjustments to your timeline? Be realistic, and think about a plan B or C.

2. Make or plan for renovations or repairs
If there are improvements you can make yourself — interior painting, basic landscaping or other touch-ups — take this time to start tackling them. If you need specialists to come into your home to do more extensive work, that may have to wait. But you can seek out referrals and contact contractors or handypeople for verbal estimates.

3. Interview agents
If you plan to work with an agent, make some calls. Once you’ve identified some prospects, these questions for real estate agents can be a helpful guide. If you find an agent you like, they may want to set up a virtual listing presentation via Skype or FaceTime.

4. Stay aware of the market
We can’t predict how the current economic uncertainty will affect home sales and values in the coming months or years — but people will continue to buy and sell homes. Look at comparable home sales in your area to get a sense of how your local market is faring. Zillow’s pricing tool is one way to see what your home might sell for and help you price it right when you’re ready to list.