One of the key reasons homeowners hire real estate professionals is to help them prepare their homes for the market. A common question we hear is: “What improvements should I make to sell my home faster and for more money?” My answer is twofold: there are plenty of expensive upgrades that offer only marginal returns, but there are also cost-effective strategies that can make a significant impact.
One factor homeowners often overlook is when they replace features in their home, they are swapping something that already has value for something of potentially higher value. For example, a homeowner who invests $80,000 in a kitchen renovation might expect the home’s value to increase by at least that amount. However, the homeowner may forget the existing kitchen – no matter how dated – still had value. While upgrades to kitchens, bathrooms, flooring and light fixtures can certainly enhance a home’s appeal, they rarely yield a dollar-for-dollar return on investment.
When considering major renovations, my advice is to do them early so you can enjoy the improvements yourself. If you wait until just before selling, you may end up choosing materials and designs that don’t appeal to potential buyers. That stunning granite countertop with green streaks might be your dream, but the next owner may not agree. Instead of making costly renovations right before listing, consider leaving major aesthetic decisions to the future homeowner.
If you’re looking for impactful, budget-friendly improvements that can boost both resale value and marketability, start with the simplest yet most effective strategy: cleaning and decluttering. This is the No.1 way to sell your home quickly and for top dollar. Invest time and effort into making your home sparkle, shine and smell fresh. A clean home signals to buyers that the property has been well-maintained, easing concerns about potential hidden issues such as leaky roofs or outdated systems. While a home inspection will reveal structural concerns, a spotless home creates a strong first impression and reassures buyers that the property is a sound investment.
So, whether you’re tackling a small home refresh or deep-cleaning every nook and cranny, these efforts will go a long way in helping you sell your home quickly and for the best possible price.
Billy Morris
2025 president of the Lynchburg Association of Realtors
Associate Broker at John Stewart Walker