Spring has sprung in Toronto. If you’re thinking of selling your home soon, spring is an important time of year because it’s when buyers come out of hibernation to look for a new home. April, May and June are traditionally the best months for real estate sales.

And, just in case you haven’t noticed, the average price for a home in Toronto is at an all-time high.

But it’s not all easy sailing to cash in on the sizzling market. Unfortunately, every homeowner knows about the skyrocketing values in the GTA and, if they’re thinking of moving, they’ll be anxious to take advantage of the high prices too.

That means your home has lots of competition. While you might think that’s not a problem because homes are also spending less time on the market before being sold, don’t be too sure.

The consequences of having your home spend too long on the market can include you missing closing times and requirements on your new home.

When you include the bidding wars that can increase the amount paid for a house above the asking price, it makes a lot of sense to make sure your home presents itself in the best way it can.

But, if you haven’t renovated in a while, where do you begin? You might need tens of thousands of dollars to make it look like some of the recently-renovated gems in your neighbourhood.

Paint the Interior and Exterior of Your Home

A new coat of paint offers the highest return investment of any home renovation when it’s time to sell. Whether you do-it-yourself or hire a professional painting company, the increase in curb appeal far outweighs the cost and time involved.

It’s important to remember the outside of your home when painting. Studies show that many buyers make a decision on whether or not they like a home within the first few seconds of seeing it from the outside.

Home staging specialists recommend you use neutral colours, including beiges, taupes and greys, so the potential buyer can better envision their own décor, not yours.