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Heading into spring, it seemed like it was going to be a strong real estate market. Real estate agents were preparing for a busy homebuying season, but then COVID-19 became more than a distant fear, and as it spread and shelter-in-place orders went up nationwide, real estate changed.

If you had planned on selling this spring or summer, it might seem like all plans are on hold, but as it turns out, there are quite a few things you can do.

HomeLight, a property-tech company based in San Francisco, conducted two surveys, one in mid-February and the other in March, that show coronavirus' impact on the spring housing market from the perspective of top agents all over the country.

As the survey showed, real estate professionals from all aspects of the industry are working hard to find ways to work around the challenges that coronavirus presents. In fact, COVID-19 might just pave the way for home sales to become more digital, from the open house to the closing table.

Although 84 percent of listing agents have decided to shut down open houses, 55 percent are doubling down on creating virtual tours for buyers to continue house hunt online.

Some states are beginning to "re-open," but even if yours isn't, there are a few things you can do to position yourself for success when the time comes to sell your home.

5 home improvements worth making right now

Insights from the HomeLight survey show that there are several home improvements homeowners can make, even while social distancing, that will make a big impact on the final sales price. One thing to think about ahead of time is getting a warranty for homeowners to cover any surprises and if soemthing happens you're covered.

1. Declutter

Data from HomeLight shows that a solid Marie Kondo approach to the home and a lot of elbow grease can increase a home's resale value by up to $4,000. The KonMari Method is the brainchild of lifestyle guru Marie Kondo that's based on the idea that your belongings should bring you joy. Here's a quick guide to decluttering using the KonMari Method.

2. Deep clean

Once all the excess items are out the door, it's time to get down to business. This helpful guide will walk you through all the products and tools you'll need to tackle deep cleaning, and it'll teach you how to get your home spic and span for selling.

3. Paint

Painting is the perfect DIY project to cross off the list during COVID-19, as many paint suppliers are offering free deliveries, and you don't have to let anyone into your home to get the job done.

When it comes to choosing a color, the survey showed that 98 percent of buyers prefer neutral tones over bold ones, with 79 percent preferring gray tones and only 9 percent preferring beige tones. Also, accent walls appear to be on their way out, with 36 percent of agents agreeing that the trend is declining.

Selling a Home This Spring? Here's What 500 Top Real Estate Agents Say You Should Do

Brought to you by HomeLight.

4. Replace the gutters, windows and siding

Agents surveyed said that homes with quality gutters recouped a 60 percent return on investment. A whopping 80 percent of agents surveyed said homeowners will get back more than the initial investment on window and siding replacement upon selling. Energy efficient windows, 46 percent of agents said, boost a home's value.

5. Upgrade your curb appeal

Almost all agents agree that curb appeal makes a huge difference when selling a home, perhaps now more than ever. Open houses might be canceled, showings might be limited, but potential buyers are able to drive by a home at any point.

Now, when many are craving a little outdoor time anyway, is an excellent time to get your lawn in pristine order and to make simple upgrades that'll boost your curb appeal.

Pressure washing, painting the front door, planting colorful flowers, replacing hardware and house numbers, and upgrading your porch's appeal are all simple DIY projects that have a big payoff.

It might seem like there's a limit to what can be accomplished during this uncertain time, but with a little insight, planning and can-do attitude, homeowners can easily increase their home's value, even while self-quarantining.