Should You Renovate Before Selling Your Home? Here's My Honest Take.

One of the first things homeowners ask me before listing is,
“Should I fix this up first… or just sell it as-is?”

And the answer?
It depends. But more often than not, less is more.

Here’s how I help clients decide where to spend (and where to save) when getting ready to sell their home in Columbus.

1. Focus on First Impressions

Curb appeal matters. You don’t need new landscaping, but the basics go a long way:

• Clean up the yard

• Add a fresh doormat

• Touch up peeling paint

• Swap in a modern porch light

The goal: help buyers feel good the second they pull up — not wonder what else needs work.

2. Fix What’s Broken, Skip the Rest

If something is obviously broken (like a leaky faucet or cracked window), it’s worth fixing.
But you don’t need to remodel your entire kitchen or bathroom to sell your home.

I always say: buyers can handle “dated,” but they get nervous about “damaged.”

3. Clean, Declutter, and Let it Breathe

A clean, simple space always shows better — and it doesn’t cost a dime.
Pack away personal items, clear off surfaces, and open the blinds.
Let buyers picture their own life in the home, not yours.

4. Leave the Big Decisions to the Market

Worried your cabinets are too dark or the carpet’s not “on trend”?
Don’t stress. Many buyers plan to renovate anyway — especially in this market.
Unless your home needs major repairs, it’s often smarter to price it accordingly and market it well.

Need Help Deciding What to Tackle? Let’s Walk Through It Together.

I offer pre-listing walkthroughs to help sellers figure out what actually needs to be done — and what can be left alone.
No fluff, no unnecessary spending — just real advice that saves time and money.

Want to schedule a quick walk-through or free consult?
Let’s talk and make a plan that fits your goals and timeline.