I'm a Realtor and Interior Designer: 5 Updates I'd Make Before Selling a Home

When you're preparing to sell, it's easy to assume you need to update everything.

You usually don't.

As both a Realtor and interior designer, I look at updates differently. The goal isn't to create your dream home right before moving. It's to help buyers see the home at its best without spending money where you aren't likely to see the return.

Here are five places I'd focus first.

1. Paint

Fresh paint can make a surprisingly big difference, especially when walls are heavily marked, colors are very personalized or rooms feel dark.

That doesn't mean every room has to become white. The goal is simply to create a clean, cohesive feeling.

2. Lighting

Outdated light fixtures can make an otherwise updated home feel older.

Replacing a few prominent fixtures in the kitchen, dining room or entry can help the entire house feel more current.

3. Flooring

I wouldn't automatically replace every floor.

But damaged flooring, heavily stained carpet or several competing flooring styles can distract buyers.

Sometimes replacement makes sense. Other times professional cleaning or strategically updating one area is enough.

4. Hardware and Small Details

Cabinet hardware, faucets and even dated door hardware can influence how buyers perceive a space.

These aren't always necessary upgrades, but they can provide a relatively simple refresh.

5. Decluttering

This one doesn't require a renovation budget at all.

Removing extra furniture, countertop items and unnecessary décor can make rooms feel larger and allow buyers to focus on the home itself.

Before You Start Remodeling...

Ask someone who understands your specific market.

I would much rather walk through a home before a seller spends $20,000 and tell them where I'd spend $5,000 instead.

The right preparation is different for every property.