The process of selling a house is both thrilling and difficult, and it usually takes several days. As the U.S. News & World Report states, it took an average of 58.2 days to sell a house in 2024.
Many factors can affect the timeline of the sale, from listing to closing. This can include the state of the market and the home’s price, location, and condition.
Making the right upgrades can significantly impact how quickly your property sells and at what price. Today’s buyers are more discerning than ever. They are looking for homes that are aesthetically pleasing and structurally functional. Thus, you should consider making some upgrades before selling to maximize your home’s value.
Enhancing Curb Appeal with Exterior Improvements
As a Forbes article notes, you only get one chance to create a first impression. The curb appeal of your property’s exterior can create a “wow” or “ho-hum” effect, which can influence your entire deal. Poorly maintained fences, overgrown landscaping, trash in the yard, etc., are considered to be the worst curb appeal issues.
Potential buyers will see your property’s outside first, so it needs to be eye-catching and in style. Peeling paint, cracked driveways, and an unkempt lawn can instantly turn buyers away.
However, a well-kept driveway, for example, might indicate that the property has been well-maintained. Before putting your property up for sale, this is one of the most important repairs you can make. If you find visible cracks or uneven surfaces on your driveway, hiring concrete and asphalt contractors can be a worthwhile investment.
According to Milliken Corporation, these experts can evaluate the state of your driveway and, if necessary, suggest resurfacing or replacement. A newly paved driveway improves curb appeal and gives purchasers peace of mind that they won’t have to do expensive repairs.
In addition to the driveway, think about painting the front door, as it may greatly increase the value of your home. According to House Beautiful, the following are some of the most exquisite hues for your front entrance:
- Terra-cotta orange
- Regal navy
- Coastal blue
- Natural stain
- Cool-toned teal
Modernizing the Kitchen and Bathrooms
Buyers expect kitchens and bathrooms to be modern, clean, and functional. An Investopedia article states that both kitchen and bathroom improvements can offer a significant return on your investment. In fact, a minor kitchen remodel gave 85.7%, and a bathroom remodel gave 66.7% returns on average in 2023.
If your kitchen features outdated cabinets, worn countertops, or inefficient appliances, upgrading these elements can make a huge difference. Even simple changes, such as repainting cabinets, replacing hardware, or installing a stylish backsplash, can add value without requiring a full remodel.
Replacing old fixtures, adding modern lighting, and ensuring grout lines are clean in the bathroom can significantly improve the space’s appeal. Buyers appreciate homes where they don’t have to worry about making immediate updates. Therefore, addressing any aging or damaged components in these areas will work in your favor.
Creating More Usable Space
One of the biggest selling points for any home is functional space. Buyers always seek extra storage, well-defined living areas, and multi-purpose rooms. If your home has an underutilized basement, attic, or garage, consider making these areas more functional. Organizing storage spaces, finishing an unfinished basement, or adding built-in shelving can help potential buyers envision the possibilities.
During such renovations, homeowners often need to clear out furniture and belongings to make room for improvements. This is where you can seek help from a professional moving service provider. You can get a small room on rent and hire a moving & storage company to shift the furniture there. This will enable the laborers to complete the necessary upgrades quickly so you can sell your property faster.
According to Redwood Moving & Storage, a professional moving service provider can ensure that all your items are safe. Some popular service providers also offer standard valuation protection for your items at no additional costs. You may thus be sure that everything you have packed will be secure during the journey.
You can create a clear, open area that lets purchasers see every room’s possibilities by temporarily moving furniture. Additionally, using professional storage solutions can protect valuable belongings from dust, paint, or accidental damage during renovations. Once the work is complete, staging the home with minimal but stylish furnishings can make it even more appealing to buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I renovate my home before selling it, or sell it as-is?
You should determine this based on the state of your house and the state of the market. Upgrading your house might increase its selling price if it has serious flaws, such as old kitchens, broken floors, or structural difficulties. Nonetheless, some purchasers would want to buy a house as-is and make their own renovations.
How much should I budget for home upgrades before selling?
The budget depends on the extent of renovations you want to make. Larger work like kitchen improvements or new flooring can cost $10,000 to $50,000 or more. However, smaller renovations like painting, gardening, and thorough cleaning might cost a few thousand dollars. Prioritizing upgrades that are affordable and offer a good return on investment is important.
Do I need a home inspection before listing my house?
Although buyers usually schedule a home inspection, some sellers want to have a pre-listing inspection to find and fix any significant problems. Doing this can help prevent any last-minute surprises that might delay or derail a sale.
Every detail matters because buyers are drawn to houses that seem move-in ready. Maintaining a pleasant exterior, performing required repairs, and investing in important renovations may make your house stand out from the competition. With thoughtful planning and the right improvements, you can increase your home’s value and attract serious offers in no time.
