Standing Out in a Busy Summer Market: Seller Tips for Success in 2025

Summer is traditionally a busy time in real estate—but this year has been especially active for buyers. At Sold By Shearers, we’ve seen more buyers out shopping than in previous years, which is fantastic news for the market overall. However, there’s a catch: there are more active listings available than usual, meaning competition among sellers is heating up.

If you’re thinking about selling—or your home is already on the market—you’ll need more than just a “For Sale” sign in the yard to attract attention and top-dollar offers. In this blog, we’re sharing proven tips to help your home rise above the competition and capture the eyes (and hearts!) of serious summer buyers.

1. Make a Killer First Impression (a.k.a. Curb Appeal)

You never get a second chance to make a first impression, especially in a crowded market. With so many homes for buyers to browse, you want yours to stand out before they even walk through the front door.

Here’s how to up your curb appeal game:

• Keep lawns trimmed and green (or water wisely to avoid brown spots)

• Add fresh mulch and tidy up garden beds

• Paint or clean your front door

• Add simple summer décor like a seasonal wreath or welcome mat

• Make sure your driveway and walkways are clean and crack-free

Small, inexpensive updates like these can dramatically improve your home’s “drive-by” factor—and get buyers excited before they even step inside.

2. Highlight What Buyers Want in the Summer

Summer buyers aren’t just shopping for square footage—they’re dreaming of outdoor living, BBQs on the deck, and lazy Sunday afternoons in the backyard. Tap into that mindset by staging your outdoor spaces to feel like extensions of your home.

Some simple ideas:

• Set up a patio set with fresh cushions and a pitcher of lemonade

• Add string lights for a cozy, inviting vibe

• Trim overgrown trees or shrubs to show off your lot size

• If you have a pool, keep it crystal clear and ready to impress!

Make buyers feel like they could move in today and host a backyard party tomorrow.

3. Price Strategically—Not Emotionally

With lots of listings on the market, it’s critical to price your home competitively and realistically. Even though buyer demand is high, overpricing can lead to your home sitting longer than necessary—and when buyers see listings that linger, they often assume something’s wrong.

Work with your agent to:

• Review comparable sales in your area

• Understand what similar homes are currently listed for

• Consider pricing just below round numbers (e.g., $499,000 instead of $500,000) to show up in more online searches

The right price point will drive more interest, leading to better offers faster.

4. Be Flexible and Ready to Show

With so many options, today’s summer buyers won’t wait around. If your home isn’t available for showings when it works for them, they may move on to the next. That’s why flexibility and responsiveness are key to getting your home sold.

Tips to stay show-ready:

• Keep your home tidy every day, especially during peak showing times (evenings and weekends)

• Set up a showing plan with your agent so you’re always notified in advance

• Consider spending time at a nearby park or café during open house hours

The easier it is to view your home, the more eyes you’ll get—and more interest means a better chance of offers.

5. Update Photos & Listings for Summer Appeal

If your listing photos were taken in spring (or worse—winter!), consider a summer refresh. Bright, seasonal photos can make a huge difference in how your home is perceived online, especially when buyers are scrolling through dozens of listings.

Professional photography that captures:

• Sunlight streaming through windows

• Green lawns and lush trees

• Open patio doors or breezy curtains

…can create a strong emotional connection with summer buyers. If your home has been on the market for a few weeks, a visual refresh can breathe new life into the listing.

6. Tell a Story Buyers Can Imagine Themselves In

In a crowded market, the homes that sell fastest often have something special: a story. This could be anything from a peaceful garden retreat to a kitchen perfect for entertaining. Help your listing (and showings) tell that story through:

• Strategic staging

• Thoughtful listing descriptions

• Highlighting lifestyle features (location, walkability, schools, amenities)

When buyers can see how your home fits into their dream lifestyle, they’re far more likely to make a move.

The summer market is buzzing with buyers—but it’s also buzzing with listings. If you’re a seller in 2025, the key is standing out while staying competitive. With smart preparation, strategic pricing, and great marketing, your home can shine—even in a sea of listings.

At Sold By Shearers, we’re working with clients every day to help their homes make a lasting impression in this hot summer market. If you’re thinking about listing, or just want to explore your options, let’s chat. We’re here to help you navigate it all with confidence.

From our family to yours—happy selling!
– The Sold By Shearers Team