Some homeowners prefer to sell their home without making it move-in ready, believing that buyers will understand the property’s current state and plan to remodel or make improvements themselves. This approach can be appealing, especially when it’s clear that buyers may renovate after purchasing. However, even if a full remodel is in the buyer’s future, making a small investment in curb appeal and landscaping can significantly improve your property’s appeal—and the offers you receive.
Here’s why it’s often worth considering even limited upgrades before putting your home on the market:
1. A Fresh Coat of Paint Works Wonders
At a bare minimum, adding a fresh coat of paint can make a significant difference in how buyers perceive your home. Psychologically, light, neutral colors create a more welcoming and positive impression than dark or outdated paint. Old, faded, or overly bold colors can make a home feel less appealing, while fresh, neutral tones provide a clean, modern canvas that allows buyers to envision their own style in the space. This simple, cost-effective upgrade can have a surprisingly big impact.
2. Invest in Curb Appeal or Landscaping
Even if you believe the buyer will remodel after purchasing, showing that your home has been well-maintained through curb appeal or landscaping can influence the offers you receive. Small investments in enhancing the exterior—such as trimming bushes, planting fresh flowers, or refreshing your lawn—can make your home feel more cared for. Buyers tend to appreciate homes that present well from the outside, even if they plan to renovate the interior. These updates can prevent buyers from discounting their offer too heavily, knowing they won’t have to start by addressing a neglected exterior.
3. Create a Positive First Impression
Even if your home is not move-in ready, first impressions still matter. A buyer may plan to remodel, but they won’t want to start from a place that feels neglected. Addressing things like chipped paint, broken light fixtures, or messy landscaping can help buyers see the potential in your home. By making a few strategic updates, you can ensure buyers view your home as a project with promise, rather than a home in disrepair.
4. Position Your Home Strategically in the Market
In a competitive area like Laurelwood, homes that are not updated can still sell quickly when positioned correctly. However, homes that need obvious repairs or updates are often compared to fully renovated properties, and this can impact the perceived value. By making modest improvements—especially in areas like curb appeal and landscaping—you can close the gap and position your home in a more favorable light without the need to match turn-key properties in terms of cost or readiness.
5. Avoid Lower Offers
It’s common for homeowners to feel their property is worth more than buyers may offer, especially when the home holds sentimental value. Buyers, however, tend to view homes with a more objective eye and may adjust their offers based on the condition of the property. While they may expect to invest in renovations, small, strategic improvements can help minimize the gap between what you expect and what they’re willing to pay, ensuring that both sides feel confident about the value of the property.
Our Take as Real Estate Agents
We understand that many homeowners prefer to sell their property as-is, and we’ve worked with numerous sellers who didn’t want to make their home move-in ready. While this can be a successful approach, we’ve also seen how small investments—like improving curb appeal or refreshing the landscaping—can have a big impact on the way buyers perceive a property. Even if buyers plan to remodel, showing that the home has been cared for often leads to better offers.
We know how to position as-is properties effectively in the market and can help you find the right balance between investing in small updates and selling your home in its current state. Every property has its unique story, and we’re here to ensure your home stands out in the competitive Laurelwood market, even if it’s clear that the buyer will be making changes after the purchase.
