Pre-Sale Design · Guide
What should I update before selling?
The right updates depend on the home, the neighborhood and the likely buyer. These principles help you decide where to spend and where to hold back.
Usually worth considering
Paint in worn or strongly colored rooms, in calm, light neutrals.
Lighting: consistent bulbs, updated fixtures where they date a room, and more light in dark spaces.
Small repairs a buyer would notice, such as sticking doors, cracked tile or damaged trim.
The entry and front of the house, because first impressions set expectations.
Consider case by case
Flooring in rooms where it is worn, damaged or inconsistent.
Kitchen refreshes such as hardware, lighting or a counter change, rather than a full remodel.
Bathroom updates limited to fixtures, mirrors, lighting and grout.
Usually better left alone
Major remodels started only to sell.
Highly personal finishes a buyer would likely change.
Projects that cannot be completed well before listing.
A note on return
No update guarantees a particular sale price or timeline. The aim is a home that presents clearly and competes well.
Provided for general planning. Confirm requirements for your specific property and situation.