Planning to sell? Don’t wait until the last minute. Buyers today have more options than they did a few years ago, so getting ahead on the right repairs and updates now can make the difference between a quick sale and an underwhelming offer. The trick is to focus on improvements with strong return on investment (ROI) — the projects that actually move the needle when buyers are deciding which homes are worth touring and ultimately purchasing.

Below we break down what the data and pros say about the updates that tend to pay off, why small projects often have outsized visual impact, and how to turn national guidance into a local, practical plan.

Industry research (such as Zonda’s annual ROI studies) tracks which home improvements deliver the best value when you go to sell. The list includes a wide range of projects, but the noteworthy takeaway is that the biggest winners aren’t always large renovations — sometimes the highest ROI comes from modest, targeted work. For example, swapping out doors or restoring the front entry can be one of the top-performing upgrades in terms of perceived value, even though it’s not a major construction project.

That doesn’t mean every small fix is a guaranteed winner; the data simply show that well-chosen, cost-effective updates can produce meaningful returns. The key is choosing projects that address visible issues buyers notice first: curb appeal, minor curb-to-entry improvements, and fixes that make the home look move-in ready. In a market where buyers can easily compare multiple listings, those first impressions matter more than ever.

A recurring theme from designers and stagers is that dollar-for-dollar, certain aesthetic and finishing updates punch far above their cost. Interior designer and home stager Mallory Slesser told NAR that high-impact, affordable moves include painting, changing light fixtures, swapping hardware, and updating window treatments or draperies. These items are relatively inexpensive yet dramatically change how a space reads in photos and in person.

Beyond those examples, don’t overlook basic maintenance: cleaning gutters, removing leaf piles, touching up scuffed paint, and fixing a battered front door. Buyers are often willing to pay more for homes that feel cared for and move-in ready; conversely, visible neglect can quickly knock a listing out of serious consideration. In short: you don’t have to gut the kitchen to make buyers fall in love — thoughtful, well-executed small projects frequently deliver the best immediate return.

National ROI charts are useful guidelines, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all playbook. Buyer preferences vary by price range, neighborhood and local market conditions. That means a project that boosts resale value in one city could be unnecessary or even excessive in another. Before investing time and money, consult a local real estate professional who can translate national trends into market-specific advice.

A good agent will help you answer the practical questions:

1. Which updates do buyers in your area expect?

2. What can you skip without hurting your sale?

3. Where will a modest investment make the biggest difference?

   And, importantly, is it smarter to update or to sell as-is at a competitive price? That local perspective helps you avoid over-improving while ensuring the home looks its best to the exact audience you need to attract.

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Bottom line

You still have time to make smart updates that help your home stand out — and many top-performing improvements are affordable, visual tweaks rather than full renovations. If you’re unsure where to start, let’s talk through what makes sense for your house and neighborhood so you can prioritize the updates that will pack the biggest punch.

⭐ What’s one upgrade you’ve been thinking about — and wondering if it’s worth it? Let’s discuss.