Before you list your home, one of the smartest moves you can make is identifying which upgrades will actually boost your sales price—and which will just drain your wallet. While it’s tempting to go big with renovations, strategic improvements often deliver the best return on investment. Here’s how to evaluate what upgrades make sense for your home and market.

Start with the Buyer’s Eye
Walk through your home like a buyer would. Are there outdated fixtures, worn flooring, or tired paint colors that catch your eye first? Simple cosmetic updates—like neutral paint, modern lighting, or updated cabinet hardware—can make a major difference in first impressions without costing a fortune.

Focus on Kitchens and Bathrooms
You don’t need a full remodel. Minor kitchen and bathroom updates often recoup 70–90% of their cost. Think new countertops, re-glazed bathtubs, fresh tile grout, or new faucets. Replace old appliances only if they’re broken or severely dated—buyers care more about the look and function than having the latest models.

Don’t Ignore Curb Appeal
The outside of your home sets the tone. Landscaping, fresh mulch, and a painted front door go a long way. Studies show homes with strong curb appeal sell faster and for more money. It’s one of the least expensive improvements with the biggest return.

Understand the Rule of 200
In California, one helpful benchmark is the Rule of 200: for every $200 you spend on minor handyman projects (think caulking, touch-up painting, hardware fixes), you can expect an average return of $2,000 on your final sale price. These little updates signal a well-maintained home, giving buyers confidence.

Check Local Trends
Buyers in your area might be prioritizing home offices, updated HVAC systems, or energy-efficient features. Work with your agent to assess what upgrades are commanding attention—and dollars—in your neighborhood.

Avoid Overbuilding
If your home is in a modest neighborhood, installing high-end finishes could backfire. You don’t want to be the most expensive home on the block. Keep your upgrades in line with similar homes in your area to avoid pricing yourself out of the market.

Ask for a Pre-Listing Walkthrough
An experienced real estate professional can walk through your home and identify which improvements will truly move the needle. In many cases, a few smart fixes make more sense than full-scale renovations. Don’t guess—ask.

Strategic Upgrades Win
When preparing to sell, every dollar counts. Target your upgrades to the areas buyers notice most, and focus on improvements that create emotional appeal. Clean, updated, and move-in ready always beats flashy.

Thinking of Selling Your Home?
Team Hanna helps sellers maximize value with proven prep strategies, expert vendor connections, and a custom marketing plan that works. Whether you need advice on upgrades or you’re ready to list, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Reach out here to start the conversation.