Every homeowner wants to get top dollar when selling their home. That’s why 68% of sellers make at least one home improvement before listing. But here’s the real question: Does it always pay off and is it really necessary?
One of the biggest misconceptions sellers have? That listing with an agent means weeks of expensive repairs, dealing with contractors, and endless headaches. But here’s the truth: Many home sellers are leaving real money on the table. They might not need to renovate to sell; They might just need access to the right buyer.
Not everyone will agree with me on this, but the truth is—you don’t necessarily need to sink thousands of dollars into your home before selling. And here’s why:
Buyer Demand is Still Strong
Despite today’s higher interest rates, the market remains competitive. Buyers are still searching for homes, and many of them aren’t looking for “perfect.” Instead, they’re focused on potential, location, and value.
Homes in all conditions are selling—including those that need a little TLC. Whether your home requires a new roof, fresh carpet, or the removal of some outdated wallpaper, there are buyers out there who are more interested in what your home could be rather than what it looks like right now.
A Skilled Real Estate Agent:
Will Help You Prioritize the Right Improvements
A seasoned real estate agent with staging skills can help you determine what minor home improvements will make the biggest impact—without breaking the bank. Simple updates like decluttering, fresh paint, minor landscaping, or updating light fixtures can make a huge difference in how buyers perceive your home. With a customized checklist tailored to your specific property, you can make strategic, cost-effective improvements that enhance your home’s appeal without overspending.
Have a Large Network of Buyers Ready and Willing to Buy
One of the biggest challenges sellers face is finding the right buyer—someone who sees beyond cosmetic imperfections and understands the real value of a home. That’s where a skilled real estate agent comes in.
A skilled real estate agent will know how to connect sellers with motivated buyers who are willing to purchase homes in any condition. And only the best agents have an extensive network of buyers that they are waiting to connect with the right home.
Instead of spending thousands on upgrades with uncertain returns, oftentimes you can sell your home as-is and still walk away with a strong offer.
Can Provide Different Options & Strategies for You to Choose From
It’s important to find a local real estate agent who can provide you with multiple options—whether you’re looking for a quick cash sale or you are aiming to maximize your home’s value with a few targeted improvements. An agent who can also get you a cash offer should also be able to compare different strategies for you to decide from; from accepting an immediate cash offer to listing your home with strategic upgrades that could significantly increase your final sale price.
As a homeowner, it’s important to have all your options out on the table for you to decide on what works best for your unique situation. The difference between accepting a cash offer or listing your home with strategic updates could significantly impact your bottom line.
The following is a great example of a recent homeowner who didn’t want to put too much money into updating and remodeling. The cash offer received was $300K. The client listed the home and received a cash offer of $300K and also received an offer from a buyer who wanted to live in the home. The home ended up selling for $407K !!
Don’t Settle for Instant Cash Offers
You’ve probably seen those “instant cash offer” companies that promise quick sales with no hassle. But what they don’t tell you is that these offers often come at a steep discount and oftentimes steep fees – meaning you could be leaving tens of thousands of dollars on the table.
Moral of the Story - Selling doesn’t have to be complicated.
Instead of rolling the dice on expensive renovations or taking a lowball cash offer, have a conversation about your best options with a trusted real estate advisor.
If you’re even thinking about selling, it’s best to reach out to a real estate agent as far in advance as possible. Not all agents work the same way, an expert agent will need time to help you assess what is actually needed to get your home ready and to create a customized marketing plan tailored to your unique home and situation. Planning ahead ensures you’re in the best position to maximize your profit and make the process smooth and stress-free.
The Right Strategy Can Make All the Difference
Selling your home doesn’t have to be stressful, overwhelming, or expensive. Whether you choose to make strategic updates or sell as-is, the key is having the right real estate agent by your side—someone who understands the market, has access to the right buyers, and can help you weigh all your options. Before making any big decisions, Team Hernandez is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact them today to start your seamless homebuying experience in Highland.
