Top 5 Home Improvements That Pay off Before Selling

As both an appraiser and a realtor, one of the questions I get asked the most is: “What improvements should I make before selling my home to get the best return on my money?”

It’s a great question, and the answer really matters. Some upgrades add tremendous value and help your home sell faster, while others cost far more than they return. Based on appraisal insights, real estate market trends, and buyer psychology, here are the top five value-add improvements that typically give you the best dollar-for-dollar return before selling:

1. Minor Kitchen Refresh (ROI: ~85–100%)

The kitchen is often called the “heart of the home,” and buyers pay close attention here. The good news is you don’t need a full remodel to make an impact.

• Replace cabinet hardware with modern pulls.

• Update faucets and light fixtures.

• Repaint dated cabinets in a neutral tone if possible. If they are old laminate, they will likely need to be replaced. The good thing is you don't have to get the highest grade cabinets - the average buyer wants nice but the market does not differentiate between soft-close and hard-close, sliding drawers for pots and pans etc. They should look nice and function well.

• If budget allows, install a fresh backsplash or swap laminate counters for quartz.

Small, strategic updates can make a kitchen feel brand new without the cost of a full renovation.

2. Curb Appeal Boost (ROI: ~90–100%)

First impressions matter. Buyers often form an opinion within seconds of pulling up. I cannot stress this one enough. A deep cleaning on both the outside and inside gives the buyer the sense that you cared for your property and they can simply move right in - they don't want the hassle of doing the cleaning that should have already been done - AND it's the CHEAPEST improvement!

• Power wash the driveway, walkways, and siding.

• Refresh the landscaping with mulch and seasonal plants.

• Paint or replace the front door.

• Upgrade exterior lighting and house numbers.

A welcoming exterior sets the tone for the rest of the showing.

3. Fresh Interior Paint (ROI: ~100%+)

Few updates provide as much bang for the buck as fresh paint. I have said for years, paint is one of the most under-valued improvements. Not only does it make the place look great, it gives the space that new home smell that people love; it's glorious to the eye and oddly enough to the nose - masked with a little airfreshner, of course.

• Stick to light, neutral colors like warm whites, soft grays, or beige. ~Please obey this rule! I know you want your own personal taste, but that is not smart for selling.

• Fresh paint brightens a home, makes it feel move-in ready, and photographs beautifully.

This is one of the most cost-effective ways to transform a space.

4. Flooring Update (ROI: ~90–100%)

Old or mismatched flooring can make a home feel tired. In Florida, this is a real thing. I have seen and shown houses with multiple different flooring materials and ages. It just stops the flow and makes it feel chopped up and out of uniformity.

• Replace worn carpet with a clean, neutral option.

• Consider luxury vinyl plank (LVP) for a stylish, durable, and affordable upgrade.

• Keep flooring consistent throughout the home for a high-end look.

Buyers love the feeling of a “fresh start” underfoot.

5. Minor Bathroom Refresh (ROI: ~80–95%)

Bathrooms don’t need to be gutted to add value. Small updates go a long way. They really do! Change out the mirror, lighting, update the whole vanity or if in good condition just the pulls and faucet. Clean, clean, clean - the shower should be pristine and follow the advice below by recaulking joints and removing any mildew/stains. Decorate lightly with fresh clean towel basket, little greenery, and make it smell like heaven.

• Swap out vanity mirrors, faucets, and light fixtures.

• Re-caulk tubs and showers.

• Reglaze an older tub instead of replacing it.

Clean, bright bathrooms help buyers envision themselves living there.

Final Thoughts

Not every upgrade makes financial sense when preparing to sell. These five areas consistently offer the strongest return on investment and help homes sell faster and for a higher price.

And don’t forget — beyond renovations, deep cleaning, decluttering, and staging can sometimes add more value than big-ticket projects.

If you’re thinking about selling and want to know exactly which improvements make sense for your specific home and neighborhood, I’d be happy to run a personalized analysis. After all, as both an appraiser and a realtor, I specialize in helping sellers make smart, value-driven decisions.

📞 Feel free to reach out anytime if you’re curious about your home’s current market value or want a step-by-step plan for getting it ready to sell.

Bryan Howard, Realtor & Appraiser

Preferred Shore

SL#3533360

941-465-7013