When it comes time to sell your home, it’s natural to want it looking its best. But deciding what’s worth fixing or upgrading can get overwhelming fast. Do you repaint? Replace the flooring? Remodel the kitchen?

Before you start swinging a hammer or spending thousands on renovations, here’s some expert insight from the GoWylde Real Estate Team on which pre-listing improvements actually make a difference and which ones might just waste your money.

Start With the Basics: A Home That Looks “Loved” Sells Better

Buyers don’t expect perfection, but they do want a home that feels well cared for. Even dated spaces can shine when they’re clean, functional, and clearly maintained.

Start with these quick, high-impact improvements:

• Touch up the small stuff. Replace burnt-out bulbs, re-caulk, patch scuffs, and fix that leaky faucet. These little details show buyers your home has been looked after.
• Repaint if needed. A fresh coat in neutral, light tones instantly brightens your space and appeals to more buyers.
• Update without renovating. Paint dated cabinetry or fireplaces, swap out old light fixtures, and replace hardware for a modern touch.
• Deep clean like never before. From baseboards and vents to cupboards and appliances – especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Eliminate odours. Even the nicest homes can turn buyers off if there’s a strong pet or smoke smell. If you have pets or smoke, ask a friend who doesn’t live with you to give their honest opinion – we often stop noticing scents we’re used to.
• Declutter storage areas. Buyers will open cupboards and closets. Overfilled spaces make your home feel smaller.

💡 Want to make sure you’re focusing on the right updates?
Download our free Pre-Listing Repairs & Improvements Checklist to see which projects are worth tackling — and which you can skip.

Don’t Forget the Details Buyers and Inspectors Notice

A home inspection isn’t just about structure; it’s about perceived care. Simple maintenance goes a long way toward reassuring buyers that your home has been properly maintained.

Make sure to:

• Service your HVAC system and replace the furnace filter.
• Add salt to your water softener and test smoke and CO detectors.
• Tighten loose hinges, knobs, and handles.

Small touches like these tell buyers, “This home has been loved.”

First Impressions Matter: Boost Curb Appeal

The outside of your home is your buyer’s first impression; make it count.

• Trim hedges, edge the lawn, and plant a few flowers for pops of colour.
• Repaint or replace your front door if it’s tired – it sets the tone before they even step inside.
• Power wash siding, decks, and walkways to freshen everything up.
• If you’re selling in winter, include seasonal photos showing your yard and gardens at their best.

You only get one chance to make a first impression; make sure it says “well cared for.”

Projects to Skip (Or Approach With Caution)

Some updates sound good in theory but don’t actually deliver a strong return — especially when done right before selling.

Here’s where to think twice:

• Major kitchen or bathroom remodels. While these rooms matter, large-scale renovations rarely recoup their full cost. Buyers often prefer to customize these spaces themselves — we’ve shown countless homes with brand-new kitchens, only to hear buyers say, “We’d need to change the counters or cabinetry.”
• Luxury upgrades. High-end finishes that outprice your neighbourhood rarely deliver a strong return. Think marble countertops in a starter home or top-tier appliances in a mid-range area.
• Converting a bedroom into a walk-in closet or spa-style bath. While it may suit your lifestyle, losing a functional bedroom can hurt your home’s value and limit your buyer pool. Most buyers prioritise bedroom count over luxury extras.
• Major additions or new landscaping projects. They’re expensive and don’t guarantee a higher sale price.
• DIY work if you’re not experienced. Uneven paint lines or poor workmanship can backfire fast.
• Personal décor. Depersonalise your space – buyers shouldn’t know who lives there. You want them to picture their family in the home.

Sometimes these projects can make sense for the right home and budget, but always check with your Realtor before spending large amounts of money on a pre-sale project.

The Bottom Line: Consult Before You Spend

Not every home needs the same prep. A little guidance can save you thousands and help you focus your efforts where it really counts.

Even if you’re not planning to sell right away, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’d be happy to chat about your plans and share which updates will add the most value or connect you with our stager for advice on colours and finishes.

Ready to Get Started?

Reach out today for a personalized pre-listing consultation. We’ll walk through your home, highlight what’s worth doing (and what’s not), and help you make the most of your time and budget before listing.