Renovating an Older Home Before Selling? Here’s What You Need to Know 🛠️

YES – Clean and Declutter. First Impressions Matter!

A clean, tidy home makes a huge difference. Buyers want to imagine themselves living in the space, and a clutter-free environment helps them visualize the possibilities. Make sure the home is spotless—this includes cleaning windows, scrubbing floors, and organizing spaces like closets and basements.

YES – Light Repairs. Fix That Leaky Faucet or Squeaky Door.

Small repairs are simple and affordable but go a long way in boosting your home’s appeal. Buyers are more likely to be turned off by little things like a leaky faucet or a squeaky door. These might seem minor, but they can create a sense that the home isn’t well-maintained. Fix them before showing your home.

NO – Skip the Major Renovations. You Likely Won’t See the Return.

It might be tempting to overhaul the kitchen or bathroom, but unless you’re looking to make your home move-in ready for a very specific buyer, the money you invest in major renovations is unlikely to pay off. Often, the return on investment (ROI) isn’t worth the cost of a full remodel. Focus on smaller fixes and leave the bigger projects for buyers who want to personalize the space themselves.


Renovating before you sell can give you a competitive edge, but it’s important to know where to focus your time and money. By keeping your updates strategic and cost-effective, you’ll be able to make the right impact without overspending.

Need help with preparing your home for sale? Let’s chat—I’m here to guide you every step of the way!