Luxury finishes and outdoor upgrades often cost more than they’re worth. If you’re planning to sell, here’s where to focus your time and money.

We get asked this all the time: What should we do to increase the value of our home before we sell? It’s a fair and important question. We’ve seen firsthand which upgrades make a real difference at resale and which ones homeowners often regret.

To keep things simple, let’s break it down into two categories: upgrades that work and those you need to avoid.

Home upgrades that work. We don’t need to take on expensive renovations to impress homebuyers. The most effective improvements are often simple, strategic, and cost-effective updates such as:

• New flooring. Updated floors make a home feel clean, polished, and well cared for.

• A fresh, neutral coat of paint. This instantly modernizes rooms and helps buyers picture themselves in the space.

“Simple changes can go a long way when you’re trying to attract offers.”

• Updated fixtures. Swapping dated light fixtures, faucets, or cabinet hardware adds a modern touch with minimal cost.

Home upgrades to avoid. Some projects may seem to boost your home’s value, but they can cost more than they return. Here are a few upgrades we’ve learned to approach with caution:

• Luxury upgrades. It’s easy to get swept up in the idea that high-end features will wow buyers. But in most markets, these upgrades don’t offer the expected return. Unless we’re selling a luxury property, the cost of those materials often outweighs the value they add.

• Outdoor hardscaping. A beautifully landscaped yard can boost curb appeal, but elaborate patios and stonework are expensive, and buyers don’t always see them as added value. More often, they see added upkeep rather than added value.

• Unfinished DIY projects. If we start a project, we need to finish it. Nothing turns off buyers faster than visible, half-done renovations. Most buyers want a move-in-ready space, not a to-do list.

If you’re planning to sell sooner or later, take the time to strategize. To make it easier for you, we offer complimentary consultations to help identify which projects are worth the effort and which ones we can skip. Remember: It’s not about spending more, it’s about spending smart.

If you’re unsure about our next steps, let’s talk. We’d love to walk through our home, share ideas, and help make a plan that works for us and the market. Contact us at (651) 998-9829 or info@holzgroup.com. Looking forward to hearing from you!