Preparing your home for sale is no longer just about cleaning up and taking great photos (although those are still important!). In today’s market, savvy buyers have high expectations, and sellers are stepping up by making strategic updates to ensure their homes stand out and commands top dollar. Here are the top 10 updates sellers are doing to position their homes for success:
1. Repainting the Interior and Exterior
Why: Fresh, neutral paint gives the home a clean, modern feel and appeals to a wide range of buyers.
Details: Interior paint is one of the simplest ways to refresh a home. On average, interiors should be repainted every 5-7 years, depending on the level of use. High-traffic areas like hallways and living rooms might need updates closer to every 3-5 years, while lower-traffic spaces like bedrooms can last up to 7-10 years.
For the exterior, most homes need repainting every 5-10 years, but wood siding may need updates closer to every 3-7 years, especially in harsher climates like Colorado Springs.
2. Replacing or Cleaning Flooring
Why: Floors are one of the first things buyers notice, and outdated or worn flooring can be a deal-breaker.
Details: Sellers are upgrading builder-grade or heavily worn carpet (typically lasting 5–8 years) with durable options like luxury vinyl plank or hardwood. Professional carpet cleaning or hardwood refinishing is another popular choice for maximizing appeal. Most flooring materials, like carpet or hardwood, are refreshed or replaced every 7-10 years, depending on traffic and maintenance.
Why: Floors are one of the first things buyers notice, and outdated or worn flooring can be a deal-breaker.
Details: Sellers are upgrading builder-grade or heavily worn carpet (typically lasting 5–8 years) with durable options like luxury vinyl plank or hardwood. Professional carpet cleaning or hardwood refinishing is another popular choice for maximizing appeal.
3. Updating Light Fixtures
Why: Modern lighting instantly elevates a home’s style and creates a brighter, more welcoming atmosphere.
Details: Outdated ceiling fans, pendant lights, and chandeliers are being replaced with energy-efficient fixtures in trendy finishes like matte black, brushed nickel, or gold.
4. Enhancing Curb Appeal
Why: First impressions matter, and a well-maintained exterior sets the tone for buyers.
Details: Sellers are adding fresh mulch, planting seasonal flowers, power-washing driveways and siding, and giving front doors a fresh coat of paint or a bold new color to make them pop.
5. Refreshing the Kitchen
Why: Kitchens are a major focal point for buyers and can significantly impact the sale.
Details: From painting or refacing cabinets to replacing hardware, sellers are making kitchens shine. Upgrading countertops to quartz or granite and swapping old appliances for stainless steel or energy-efficient models are also common. On average, kitchens are remodeled or refreshed every 10-15 years, depending on wear and trends.
Why: Kitchens are a major focal point for buyers and can significantly impact the sale.
6. Modernizing Bathrooms
Why: Updated bathrooms are a top priority for buyers who want a move-in-ready home.
Details: Sellers are upgrading vanities, installing modern mirrors, re-caulking tubs and showers, and replacing outdated faucets and light fixtures. New tile or luxury vinyl flooring can also transform the space. Bathrooms are typically refreshed or remodeled every 10-15 years to maintain functionality and style.
7. Decluttering and Deep Cleaning
Why: Clean, organized spaces make it easier for buyers to visualize themselves living in the home.
Details: Sellers are deep-cleaning carpets, grout, and baseboards, organizing closets, and removing personal items like family photos to create a neutral and inviting space.
8. Staging the Home
Why: Staging highlights a home’s best features and helps buyers form an emotional connection.
Details: Sellers are rearranging furniture for better flow, adding fresh linens and throw pillows, and incorporating greenery or tasteful decor. Professional stagers are often hired for vacant homes.
9. Addressing Maintenance Issues
Why: Savvy buyers spot deferred maintenance, which can lower perceived value or lead to inspection concerns.
Details: Sellers are tackling minor repairs like fixing leaky faucets, squeaky doors, and broken fixtures. Servicing HVAC systems and ensuring the roof is in good condition are also top priorities.
10. Highlighting Energy Efficiency
Why: Buyers are increasingly prioritizing energy savings and eco-friendly features.
Details: Sellers are installing smart thermostats, replacing old windows with energy-efficient ones, sealing drafts, and adding LED lighting. Highlighting these upgrades in listings can be a strong selling point.
These updates not only make homes more attractive to buyers but also help sellers maximize their resale value. Whether you’re looking to sell soon or just starting to think about it, focusing on these key areas can make all the difference.
Thinking about selling your home? Let’s discuss how these updates can work for your property! Contact me today, and I’ll help you create a tailored plan to get your home market-ready.
Nicole Strom
Realtor in Colorado Springs, CO
📞 719-922-0102
🌐 www.NicoleStromRealtor.com
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About the Author
Nicole Strom
Nicole is a retired military spouse of over 25 years, as well as a full time Real Estate Professional serving her clients in and around Colorado Springs.
You need a REALTOR® with vast experience and knowledge of our specific market. You need a REALTOR® that genuinely cares about you and puts your needs first. You need a REALTOR® you can trust. Nicole is that REALTOR®.
