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From Lived-In to List-Ready: Prepping Your Home After 20+ Years

By Realtors Carole Smith and Cristina Formosa

Thinking about selling the home youve lived in for decades? Youre not alone. In Miami-Dade County, long-term homeownership is more common than many assume. While the national average tenure is around 10 years, we estimate that nearly 20% of homes sold in areas like Coral Gables have been owned for 20 years or more. These homes often hold deep sentimental value and with the right preparation, they can hold major market appeal, too.

After two decades or more, its easy to overlook signs of wear or dated features. Thats why the first step is a comprehensive walk-through, ideally with an experienced real estate professional. Youll want to identify items that need refreshing—scuffed walls, worn hardware, aging light fixtures, overgrown landscaping…small changes that make a big impression. A fresh coat of neutral paint and updated lighting are often two of the best returns on investment.

But should you renovate before selling? The answer is: usually not. According to Remodeling Magazines Cost vs. Value Report, most major renovations only recoup about 60–70% of their cost at resale. In Coral Gables especially, many buyers are eager to put their own design stamp on a home. Focus instead on enhancing your homes presentation, not reinventing it.

Decluttering is another key component. After 20 years, its natural to have accumulated more than you realize. Removing personal items and excess furniture helps potential buyers imagine themselves in the space. If moving out before selling isnt feasible, consider professional organization or partial staging services to highlight your homes best features.

Speaking of staging, dont underestimate its power. Staged homes can sell faster and for unto 20% more money, according to Realtor.com. Even small touches like styled shelves, fresh flowers, or layered linens can make a space feel fresh, elegant, and market-ready. That said, authenticity matters. Many long-time homes come with beautiful, mature landscaping, solid craftsmanship, and timeless floor plans. These elements are often lost in newer construction and should be highlighted, not hidden.

Finally, remember that long-term ownership signals something powerful to buyers: stability, care, and pride. While some updates may be necessary to meet todays market expectations, the lived-in warmth and legacy of your home are valuable in their own right.

If youre preparing to sell after 20 or more years, approach the process not with overwhelm but with optimism. With the right strategy and Realtor, youre not just letting go of the past; youre inviting in the future.

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Carole and Cristina believe that our homes are an important part of our lives, giving us shelter, security, and a means of self-expression. Separate from the constraints of necessity, many homes are a microcosm for the things we hold most dear — family, memories, relaxation and sense of belonging.

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