How to Prepare for a Spring 2026 Move — A Month-by-Month Timeline

How to Prepare for a Spring 2026 Move — A Month-by-Month Timeline
Your Guide to a Seamless Move in the South Bay

Planning a Spring 2026 move? Start early. Spring is one of the most competitive real estate seasons in the South Bay—especially in Morgan Hill, San Jose, and Gilroy. This month-by-month checklist helps you stay organized, reduce stress, and set yourself up for success.

December 2025 — Get Clear on Your Goals
Decide whether you’re buying, selling, or both.
Review your budget and refresh your pre-approval plan.
Declutter holiday storage, closets, and guest rooms.
Schedule a consultation with me to map out your strategy.
Pro tip: Early prep leads to smoother, more profitable sales.

January 2026 — Prep the House & Start the To-Do List
Begin light repairs: paint, fixtures, hardware, cracked tiles.
Complete a walkthrough with me for pre-listing recommendations.
Start researching neighborhoods—commute, schools, amenities. I’ll set you up with a customized home search.

February 2026 — Deep Clean, Declutter & Improve
Declutter room by room (keep, donate, store).
If selling, complete impactful upgrades:
Neutral paint
New fixtures
Updated hardware
Fresh landscaping
Finalize your financing plan if you’ll be buying.

March 2026 — Listing Prep & Market Timing
Review pricing strategy using current comps.
If buying, begin touring homes and refining your must-haves.
Book movers and start packing non-essentials.
Pro tip: March listings often outperform later spring competition.

April 2026 — Go Live & Begin Your Move
If selling, list your home—this is prime time for strong offers.
Stay flexible with showings.
Review offers and align timelines with your purchase.
Confirm logistics: movers, storage, utilities, mail forwarding.

May 2026 — Closing, Moving & Settling In
Close escrow on your sale and/or purchase.
Complete final walkthroughs.
Move into your new home.
Update your address with subscriptions, financial accounts, DMV, and employers.
Settle in and enjoy your new chapter.

Ready to Make Your Spring 2026 Move Stress-Free?

If you’d like a personalized timeline or pricing strategy—or help coordinating a sale and purchase—I’m here to guide you every step of the way.

Let’s start planning your move—reach out anytime.