I. The "Invisible Primary" Opportunity

While most sellers wait for April, the data shows January offers a "Leverage Window." With inventory at seasonal lows (31-50 homes) and interest rates stabilizing near 6%, sellers who launch now face virtually no turnkey competition.

II. The "Prep Portfolio": Evidence of Execution

Three forensic case studies proving that "guessing" at renovations is expensive:

• The Surgical Strike (3009 Montbretia): A strategic $11,288 cosmetic investment yielded a $142k profit and a neighborhood record.

• Defying the Market (1250 Germano): Sold in 13 days (5x faster than average) for 9% above comps by manufacturing urgency.

• The Turnaround (299 Via Cima): A full renovation strategy that generated a 52% increase from the purchase price on a previously "stale" asset.

III. The Vetting Guide: 5 Questions to Ask

Most agents rely on tenure; you need to hire for "Outcome-Driven Representation." This guide arms you with 5 forensic questions, including "Show me the documented ROI on your last 3 renovations" and "What is your specific strategy to maximize my sales price?".

IV. Your Spring Launch Protocol

A disciplined 90-day roadmap to ensure you don't miss the window:

• January (The Audit): Forensic valuation and Compass Capital funding approval.

• February (The Execution): Production mode with vendors and "Pre-Market Intel" drops to top agents.

• March (The Launch): Strategic debut to control market pricing before inventory rises.