A Beachwood couple came to me through a past client. As it stood, I thought their home would sell for somewhere around $340,000 to $350,000. So I gave them two options: sell it as it was, or put some money in first.
We walked the house together and I made notes: matching laminate flooring throughout, except the bathroom; the whole house painted white, the oak cabinets too, with brushed nickel hardware; and the old Formica counter replaced with granite, a new stainless steel sink and a farmhouse-style faucet. I picked everything out and helped them declutter and stage. They paid for it and did the work, about $15,000 in all by my estimate.
We listed at $360,000 with the full campaign: photos, video, drone, a video walkthrough and a branding video. An offer of $405,000 came in on the first day, and the home sold for $405,000 (sale price: Flexmls). Here's how the seller put it:
"... From day one he was attentive, caring, and held our hand through the entire selling process. Told us exactly what to update, exactly what to list at, told us what buyers like and don't like, etc. We took all of his advice and our house sold the first day on the market for well over asking price. ..."
Harry P., Google review
An update that pays off in one house may not in another. That's why I walk the house before I recommend a dollar of work.