Smart Renovations That Attract Buyers: Insights From a Real Estate Pro
If you’re a homeowner thinking about remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, here’s something you should know upfront: not every update pays you back at resale — even if it looks beautiful.
As a real estate agent, I’ve walked through countless homes with buyers. I see what catches their eye, what turns them off, and which updates actually help a home sell faster and for more money. Whether you’re renovating to enjoy your space more or preparing to sell in the future, it’s smart to understand what buyers really want.
Let’s talk about how to make sure your remodel adds real value — and avoids regrets.
Why Real Estate Agents Should Be Part of Your Remodeling Plan
Many homeowners start remodeling without consulting a real estate professional, but that’s a missed opportunity. We bring something unique to the table: a front-row seat to buyer behavior.
“I tell my clients — don’t guess. Let’s look at what’s selling, what buyers are asking for, and where your money will go the furthest,” says Johnetta Dillard, REALTOR® and local market expert.
We also know how your neighborhood compares. If your home is priced mid-range but your kitchen is suddenly luxury-level, you might not get that money back. On the other hand, the right updates — in line with market demand — can deliver a solid return.
What Buyers Really Want in a Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the most emotionally important spaces in a home. It’s also one of the most scrutinized by buyers.
A complete kitchen renovation may recover about 60% of the cost at resale, according to national reports. But you don’t need to spend tens of thousands to make an impact. Small upgrades can go a long way — when they’re done with buyer preferences in mind.
Must-have kitchen features buyers love:
- Open layout connected to the family room
- Kitchen island with bar seating or storage
- Neutral color palette, especially whites or light grays
- Stainless steel or energy-efficient appliances
- Stylish, clean backsplash
- Lots of drawer and cabinet space
- Smart home appliances and lighting
- Walk-in pantry (if space allows)
Buyers are also drawn to kitchens that feel timeless rather than overly trendy. A fresh coat of paint, updated lighting, or new cabinet hardware can give the space a modern vibe without overcommitting to a design fad.
What Buyers Look For in Bathrooms
Bathrooms are another high-impact space, and while a full renovation recoups about 50% of its cost on average, smart updates can boost buyer interest and perceived value.
Buyer-friendly bathroom features:
- Double vanities with good lighting
- Rainfall or dual shower heads
- Neutral tile and clean finishes
- Modern mirrors and fixtures
- Plenty of vanity storage
- Spa-like elements (think: calming design, soft lighting)
Depending on your market, a bathtub might be a must-have — especially for families. In others, a large walk-in shower is more important. This is where local insights from a REALTOR® like myself can guide your decision.
Don’t Let DIY Projects Hurt Your Home’s Value
I love a good weekend project as much as the next person, but some upgrades are best left to the pros.
Buyers can often spot rushed or amateur work — uneven paint, sloppy tile edges, crooked fixtures. And when that happens, they start questioning the quality of the whole house.
“If you’re going to invest in a remodel, it should look polished. It should inspire confidence,” says Johnetta Dillard. “The last thing you want is for a buyer to fall in love with your home — then get turned off by a crooked faucet or uneven flooring.”
Renovating Before Selling? You Don’t Have to Go It Alone
More homeowners are turning to presale renovation services that help identify high-ROI projects and even front the cost, letting you pay from your sale proceeds.
In many cases, this approach can add tens — or even hundreds — of thousands of dollars to the final sale price. It’s a win-win: your home looks its best, and you’re not coming out of pocket upfront.
Ask your agent (like me!) if this is a good option for your home and market.
Final Thoughts: Remodel with Purpose
Whether you’re upgrading for your own enjoyment or preparing for a future sale, the best remodeling projects are the ones that make your home feel better today — while adding value for tomorrow.
Before making changes, take a moment to consult someone who knows the market. As a real estate professional, I can help you decide what’s worth your time, effort, and investment.
Thinking about remodeling your kitchen or bath?
Let’s talk about what buyers in your area are actually looking for — and how to make sure your investment pays off.
— Johnetta Dillard, REALTOR®
Helping homeowners make smart, confident real estate decisions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Will remodeling my kitchen or bathroom always increase my home’s value?
Not necessarily. While kitchens and bathrooms are high-impact areas, not all updates will deliver a strong return on investment. It’s important to focus on what buyers in your area actually want and avoid over-improving for your neighborhood.
2. How much should I budget for a kitchen remodel if I’m planning to sell soon?
It depends on the scope, but even small updates like painting cabinets, upgrading fixtures, or swapping out lighting can make a difference. A full kitchen remodel can cost $20,000–$60,000+, but you may only recoup about 60% of that at resale. Stick with timeless styles and functional improvements.
3. Is it worth renovating my home if I don’t plan to sell for several years?
Yes — as long as the updates increase your enjoyment and are done with resale in mind. Choosing neutral, timeless styles ensures that your investment will still appeal to buyers in the future.
4. What are the most valuable bathroom updates for resale?
Buyers love spa-like bathrooms. Focus on modern lighting, dual vanities, updated fixtures, clean tile work, and good storage. Walk-in showers are popular, though in some markets, having at least one bathtub remains important.
5. What should I avoid when remodeling my home for resale?
Avoid overly personalized styles (like bold wallpaper, eccentric colors, or custom features that don’t appeal to the average buyer). Also, steer clear of DIY projects that might look amateurish — buyers will notice.
6. How do I know which updates buyers want in my neighborhood?
Ask a local real estate professional (like me!). I can provide you with a comparative market analysis (CMA), share insights from local buyers, and guide you on what’s trending — and what’s not — in your area.
7. Can I get help with renovations if I want to sell but can’t afford the upgrades?
Yes. There are presale renovation programs that front the cost of improvements and get paid out of your sale proceeds. I can help you explore whether that’s the right option for your situation.
8. What’s the first step if I’m thinking about remodeling?
Start with a quick consultation. I’ll help you assess your home’s current value, review your goals, and recommend the best upgrades based on your market. From there, we can build a smart, value-focused plan.
