Why Fixing Up Your House Can Help It Sell Faster

Why Fixing Up Your House Can Help It Sell Faster

If you're considering selling your house, it's important to know that there are buyers ready and willing to pay today’s high prices. However, they prefer homes that are move-in ready. As a recent press release from Redfin explains:

“Buyers are still out there and they’re willing to pay today’s high prices, but only if the house is in really good shape. They don’t want to spend extra money on paint or new appliances.”

It makes sense when you think about it. Buyers are paying top dollar for a house in today’s market, which means they might not have the budget for upgrades after they move in. If your home is outdated or requires some work, buyers might pass it by or offer less than you expected.

Many homes currently need upgrades, as millions are entering their prime remodel years (between 20 and 39 years old). Perhaps your home is one of them. According to John Burns Research and Consulting (JBRC), the number of homes in their prime remodel years is high and growing (see graph below):

If your house is in this category, it's crucial to consider making selective updates to attract buyers and sell it faster. But how do you decide where to invest your time and money?

Why You Need a Real Estate Agent

By collaborating with a local real estate agent to strategically plan your improvements, you can ensure you’re making a wise investment. Simply put, not all upgrades are worth the cost. As Bankrate explains:

“Before you spend money on costly upgrades, be sure the changes you make will have a high return on investment. It doesn’t make sense to install new granite countertops, for example, if you only stand to break even on them, or even lose money.”

And, as that same Bankrate article continues, that’s where a local real estate agent comes in:

“. . . a good real estate agent will know what local buyers expect and can help you decide what needs doing and what doesn’t.”

Your agent understands what buyers in your area want and what they're willing to pay for. Collaborating with them ensures you won't waste money on upgrades that won't pay off. Instead, they'll guide you on which improvements will make your house more appealing and valuable.

Bottom Line

Selling a house today requires more than just putting up a For Sale sign. To attract buyers willing to pay today's high prices, your home needs to be in top condition.

The key is making smart improvements that offer the best return on your investment. Let’s work together to understand what buyers are looking for and what updates your house needs before selling.