Should You Update Your Home Before Selling? Here’s What to Know
Deciding whether to update your home before putting it on the market can feel like a big decision. On one hand, you want to make a great impression on buyers and increase your return. On the other, it’s hard to justify big expenses on a home you’ll soon be leaving. At Stephens Real Estate, we get it! Here are a few straightforward ways to decide if updates are the right choice for you.
Budget Wisely
Start by setting a clear budget before diving into any updates. Consider what you’re willing to invest and focus on the areas with the most potential impact. Real estate expert Michelle Roberts-Freeman advises, “You don’t want to end up ‘trading dollars’ for the same return,” so be realistic about what’s worth updating. Consulting with your Stephens agent can also give you a sense of which updates are likely to make the biggest difference in Lawrence.
Assess Your Home’s Condition
Take an objective look at each room in your home and make note of areas needing attention. Here’s where to focus:
- Structural Issues: Take care of any major concerns like leaks, foundation cracks, or plumbing problems. Buyers often see these as deal-breakers.
- Cosmetic Fixes: Small changes like a fresh coat of paint or fixing visible wear and tear can make a big impact without breaking the bank.
Shelley Ezell, a Stephens Real Estate agent and part of the Ezell team with Cheri Ezell, reminds sellers of the importance of first impressions, saying, “We always tell people ‘you only get one chance to make a good first impression.’ Specific to de-cluttering, we want people to be able to see your house and not just your stuff.” Following this advice, a decluttered and clean home helps potential buyers focus on the space, not the contents, making a positive impact from the moment they step in.
High-Impact Areas That Appeal to Buyers
If you’re going to spend on updates, make it count by focusing on areas that get buyer attention:
- Kitchen: An updated kitchen can be a huge selling point. Consider easy fixes, like modernizing appliances, replacing countertops, or painting cabinets.
- Bathrooms: Clean, modern bathrooms go a long way. Think about adding new fixtures, fresh grout, or a new vanity.
- Curb Appeal: Make a great first impression with a tidy lawn, fresh paint on the front door, and basic landscaping.
- Flooring: Refreshing your floors by replacing worn carpet or refinishing hardwood can be well worth it.
Small Updates Can Make a Big Difference
You don’t have to go all out with major renovations to attract buyers. Simple, budget-friendly changes can be surprisingly effective:
- Fresh Paint: Neutral colors go a long way to help buyers envision themselves in the space.
- Declutter and Clean: A clean, clutter-free home looks bigger and more inviting. “A deep clean is a must!” says Michelle Roberts-Freeman, emphasizing that cleanliness can make as much impact as major renovations.
- Lighting: A well-lit home feels more welcoming. Update any dated light fixtures and add lamps or other lighting where needed.
Think About Market Conditions
Market conditions are also a big factor. If Lawrence is in a seller’s market, your home might attract offers even without updates. In a buyer’s market, however, some sprucing up could give you a competitive edge. As Roberts-Freeman explains, “When deciding whether to renovate or sell your home as-is, consider the cost of renovations against potential increase in sale price.”
At Stephens Real Estate, we’re here to help you make the right choices for a successful sale. Whether you decide on a few updates or plan to sell as-is, reach out to us to get local insights and advice that’s right for your home.
