3 Misconceptions About Renovating Your Home Before Selling

Have you ever watched one of those house-flipping TV shows? The houses are transformed within weeks, and the episode ends with an eye-popping ROI reveal. Like anything on TV, this is a skewed result of pre-listing renovations and investments.

During listing consultations, our clients often ask about the benefits of a renovation before they list their homes. Our go-to advice is that it’s all-or-nothing. Either leave a blank (dated) canvas for someone else to remodel or update all the rooms that need it. 

Today we’re tackling 3 misconceptions about renovating your home before you list it. Take a look…

Misconception #1. It’s a Quick Turnaround 

Depending on the size of the renovation, it can take months to update a space. From the planning stages to hiring reliable contractors and tradespeople to the actual construction work, you’ll have an extended timeline before you can list it. If you have the time and investment flexibility, you may want to consider a renovation. 

Also, contractors and tradespeople are booked months in advance, so if you want to renovate, plan accordingly.

Pro Tip: Leave time after you remodel and before you list for things like home staging to attract the right buyers. 

Misconception #2. DIY for the Best ROI

DIY may be an attractive solution, especially if it’s a smaller space like a bathroom. Yes, YouTube does have “how to” videos for pretty much everything, but we suggest seriously considering hiring a professional. 

Why? More than likely, it’s your first time completing a project like this, so it will take much longer than you anticipated. Also, if something goes wrong or the outcome falls short of your expectations, you’ll hire an expert to fix it, ultimately costing you more than if you would have called them in the first place. 

Having a licensed professional is always a great idea, so things like liability, permits, etc., fall on them, not you. You don’t need to add any more stress! 

Misconception #3. It’s a Cost-Effective Endeavor

Not all renovations are created equal when it comes to ROI. If you invest in a renovation, make educated decisions with thoughtful planning and budget management. Here’s a quick list of the home improvements with the best return on investment*…

• 74% New Windows
• 78% New Front Door
• 80% Kitchen Remodel
• 105% Improved Landscaping
• 108% Added Attic Insulation

Additionally, bathroom renovations, adding square footage, and upgrading to high-efficiency appliances are great options to consider as well. 

Pro Tip: You want your home to appeal to 90% of people, so steer away from unique or unusual materials and products. 

Renovation Alternatives

If you have a short timeline or want to leave a blank slate for buyers, we suggest giving your home a new coat of paint and excellent staging. Check out our post to see if your Yakima home would benefit from staging. 

Do you want to renovate your home before you list it? We’d love to help you determine the best plan to get you the best return on your listing.  

Please don’t hesitate to call, text, or email us. 

Until Next Time,

Mal & Joel

*All statistics reported by US News and World Report, June 27, 2017