Is It Worth Renovating Before Selling? What Milton Buyers Want
Should you fix up your home before putting it on the market, or sell it as-is? Unfortunately, the answer isn’t the same for everyone.
Sure, renovations can add value if you tackle the right projects and spend wisely.
Keep reading to learn what local buyers want, how to calculate your renovation ROI, and which upgrades are worth your time and money.
Market Overview of Milton Real Estate
Milton’s housing market is active yet balanced. The town’s small-town feel, top-rated schools, and improving transit keep families and first-time buyers coming.
This summer, the median home price sits just over $1 million. Detached homes often climb higher, while townhomes give buyers a more affordable way in.
Well-presented, well-priced homes typically leave the market quickly. Properties needing upgrades tend to linger or draw lower offers, especially with turnkey options available nearby.
Calculating Renovation ROI
Before calling a contractor or grabbing that paintbrush, consider the numbers, as your renovation costs are an investment. Ask your agent for their insights on what your return might be when your home hits the market.
Here are some average reno costs in the Milton area with typical ROIs:
- Kitchen refresh: A kitchen remodel can run anywhere from about $4,000 for a modest update to over $50,000 for a high-end transformation with ~75% ROI
- Bathroom update: $5,000 to $15,000 with ~70% ROI
- Interior painting: A standard-sized room typically runs between $300 and $1,200, depending on how detailed the job is, with up to 90% ROI
- Flooring replacement (main floor): Installing
laminate or engineered hardwood in Milton usually costs $6 to $20 per sq ft, while tile comes in around $7 to $10 per sq ft with ~80% ROI. Note that these costs do not include installation. Consider DIY for smaller projects and hiring a professional for larger projects.
What Milton Buyers Want
Renovating without knowing your target buyer can be risky. To make sure your updates pay off, focus on what local house hunters are looking for.
Modern, Open Layouts
Buyers are drawn to bright, open spaces that feel fresh. Removing a wall or blending the kitchen and living area can completely transform the look and feel.
Updated Kitchens and Baths
These are your crowd-pleasers: polished finishes, stone countertops, and great lighting can steal the show, even if the appliances aren’t fresh out of the box.
Energy Efficiency
New windows, smart thermostats, and LED lighting signal lower utility costs. Bonus points if you can mention upgraded insulation or a high-efficiency furnace.
Curb Appeal
First impressions hit hard. A neat lawn, a freshly painted door, and well-trimmed hedges can turn a casual passerby into a serious buyer knocking on your door.
Top High-Impact Renovation Projects
If you’re looking for bang-for-your-buck projects that consistently appeal to Milton buyers, start here:
- Minor kitchen refresh: Consider a new backsplash, faucet, updated lighting, and freshly painted cabinets. You don’t have to gut the whole space.
- Neutral paint and lighting: Bright walls, warm bulbs, and updated fixtures help your home feel current and move-in-ready.
- Garage and entry doors: A new front door adds charm and security, while an upgraded garage door improves curb appeal.
- Landscaping touches: You don’t need a complete garden overhaul. Simple mulch, seasonal flowers, and trimmed pathways help your home look cared for.
Timing and Budget Considerations
Renovations aren’t for everyone. If you’re working with a short timeline or tight budget, there are still innovative ways to prep your home for the market.
Short Timeline
Focus on cleaning, painting, and staging. You can skip big renovations and still attract strong offers.
Longer Horizon
Consider spreading out projects over a few months. If you know you’ll be selling next year, updating flooring or finishing the basement might be beneficial.
Working Within a Budget
Prioritize obvious spaces like the kitchen and front entrance. Contractor pricing can significantly vary, so always get a few quotes before hiring.
Integrating Home Staging
Renovations make your house look great, but staging makes it feel like home by:
- Decluttering and depersonalizing
- Creative furniture placement
- Highlighting the upgrades
Downloadable Checklist: Renovate vs. Sell Decision
Should You Renovate Before Selling?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but with the right information, you can make the choice that works for your timeline, budget, and home.
The Flowers Team has helped hundreds of Milton homeowners decide when to invest and when to list.
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