By Vanessa Saunders, MBA, MIMC , Broker Owner, Global Property Systems Real Estate.

I know there are Hudson Valley homeowners out there planning to put their homes on the market this spring. There must be, because with the home inventory this low now, somebody has to be holding out!!

If you are waiting for the traditional "spring season" in the Hudson Valley real estate market (which by the way doesn't exist anymore), here are ten things you can do now to be ready when you decide to list.

Fix up your entry.
Either put on a new coat of paint or get a whole new front door and give your buyers a good first impression.

Do a little landscape planning.
Yes, there may still be snow on the ground, but take a little time to plan for installing some annuals and perennials for a pop of color next spring, and add a few shrubs to perk up your green space.

Be sure your exterior lighting is working properly.
and replace all outdoor lightbulbs that are not.

Wash your windows (yes, inside AND out.)
You'd be amazed how crystal clear windows make a home open and bright.

Clean out your garage.
All the stuff you have in there that you never use has to go, either to the dump, the recycling center or to a storage locker if you just can't part with it.

Remove lawn ornaments.
Not just the ones you'll want to take with you, but also those deflated holiday characters resting under the snowbanks. Flat Santa's gotta go!

Replace that old welcome mat.
Let buyers know how welcome they really are.

Paint or replace your street numbers.
As a Realtor, I can't tell you how many times I've had to show a home I couldn't find because it had no visible street numbers.

If your house is dirty, power-wash it!
Cleaning any outdoor surfaces to give them a "Like New" feel, including siding, sidewalks and the driveway.

Fix broken windows and screens.
Homes with obvious damage to windows and doors speaks to buyers that your house may be neglectfully maintained inside as well.

If you've decided to put your home on the market in 2021, take the time you have now to get it ready to sell.

This article was previously published at Global Property Systems.