When planning to sell their home, many homeowners can’t decide between upgrading and repairing certain aspects or selling it as it is. Since some costly renovations may add little to resale value or have no effect on real estate appraisals, it’s crucial to know which projects are worth the investment. Here is a list of upgrades and improvement projects that will boost your home's value before you put it up for sale.

How to Improve Home Value Before Selling

1. Upgrade Kitchen and Bathroom

Kitchens and bathrooms are two areas that most people tend to factor in most before buying a property. When upgrading them, consider cosmetic improvements first before a complete overhaul. In the kitchen, replace backsplash, reface or repaint cabinet doors, swap out laminate countertops with stone, or invest in newer appliances. For quick, easy updates in the bathroom, replace chipped mirrors and sinks, worn out shower doors, dull-looking fixtures, and outdated lighting.     

2. Fix Existing Damage

Inspect your home to determine what needs to be fixed right away. Take stock of repairs you’ve been putting off—from a messy landscape to an unfinished patio. Repave the driveway, refinish your hardwood floors, and replace sidings to get the best real estate appraisals. Additionally, hire professionals to clean the gutters, powerwash the siding, and inspect the roof. 

3. Give It a Fresh Coat

Make your interiors look instantly fresh and new with a coat of paint. Be sure to pick a neutral palette—eggshell white, cream, beige, and light gray—that appeals to more buyers. Skip the wallpapers and stick to painting your walls, ceilings, and doors instead. Consider painting the outside as well to give your exteriors an update.

4. Boost Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, especially when selling your home. Improve curb appeal by raking leaves and clearing fallen branches and debris. Think about planting native trees, drought-tolerant shrubs, and perennial foliage for a low-maintenance landscape. Be sure to prune your plants and mow the grass occasionally for healthier, lusher growth.  

Before listing your home for sale, take on a few improvement projects to increase your property value and real estate appraisals. Let the property management professionals at Galvin Realty Group guide you through the process. Serving residents of Rochester, NY, and Monroe County since 1987, they’ll give you sound advice on commercial real estate and asset management. Call (585) 546-1290 to schedule a real estate appraisal.