If you’re a homeowner in Leesburg eying the real estate market for a potential sale, you could be in luck. “We are in a really great market,” said The Local Group’s Eryn Appell, a Purcellville native who is now a Leesburg homeowner. “And we expect it to really pick up for the spring. We’re hearing from lenders that they’re getting a lot of pre-approval requests. That’s a great indication that the market should be good, and we’re lucky that Leesburg has really become quite a hotspot.”
Historic downtown Leesburg, in particular, remains highly desirable due to its charm, walkability, and vibrant community atmosphere—as well as its close proximity to seasonal festivals, horse country, museums, and more.
In general, Appell notes, buyers "do get a little bit more for your money in Leesburg and Loudoun County than in, say, Arlington and D.C., but prices have risen significantly since the pandemic."
Thinking about selling? Here are some quick tips to boost your home’s appeal and maximize its value.
Apply Neutral Colors
The first step? Decluttering. Creating a clean, open space lets prospective buyers see your home and its attributes clearly and without distraction. Next: a neutral color scheme.
“We always say, have a very neutral palette when you go to sell your home,” Appell said. Neutral carpet and paint colors—as well as that clutter-free space—allow potential buyers to envision their own belongings there.
A fresh coat of paint also can brighten a home and even make it feel updated. “If you have a dated kitchen, painting your cabinets is a cost-effective way to help bring a home more current,” said Appell.
Freshening up flooring and carpets is another must. “Touch up any flooring that may be damaged,” Appell advised.
Stay on Top of Maintenance
Home-repair issues can become a significant hurdle during the selling process, so tackle any lingering or potential home-inspection issues before listing. “Make sure you’re staying on top of home maintenance, because deferred maintenance really can come back to haunt you,” Appell cautioned. Diligent upkeep not only prevents costly repairs down the road, but also signals to buyers that the home has been well cared for over time.
Even simple things like fixing a leaky faucet or repairing minor cracks in the walls can help demonstrate to buyers that your home is a worthy investment and is move-in ready.
Enhance Curb Appeal
First impressions do matter, so keep up with yard work and outside maintenance, too, from guttering to grass. “You want your house to look fresh: nicely manicured lawn, fresh mulching and plantings, trimmed trees,” Appell said.
You also can avoid a common home-inspection snag by trimming branches and bushes away from the house. “That is something that comes up on home inspections all the time,” Appell said. “They ask that foliage be cut away from the home, because it can do damage to the exterior of your house.”
Consider Green Upgrades
Sustainability is becoming more important to some buyers, and Appell has observed an uptick in homes equipped with solar panels. While some upgrades like geothermal systems can be intriguing for buyers, they’re also more costly to install, Appell said. But smaller eco-friendly features—think energy-efficient windows and appliances or a smart thermostat—can also help set your home apart for buyers who have green goals top of mind.
Update Lighting
“If you have lighting fixtures that look a little older, people really notice that off the bat,” Appell said. Investing in some more updated lighting can have a surprisingly positive effect without breaking the bank. “You can really find some affordable modern lighting fixtures,” she explained.
A Community for All Generations
Beyond individual homes, Leesburg itself is a draw for buyers. “Leesburg is really having a wonderful moment,” Appell said. With its mix of charming historic architecture, a vibrant downtown with new businesses and restaurants, and year-round festivals, it’s easy to see what makes it attractive.
“We’re seeing young people returning from college for great job opportunities, young families, and retirees who are downsizing to be closer to family and to enjoy how walkable downtown is,” Appell noted. “It really is appealing to everyone, and I think that’s part of what makes Leesburg so special.”
For more information about Leesburg real estate, visit thelocalgrouploudoun.com.
"We're lucky that Leesburg has really become quite a hotspot."