10 Unconventional Pre-Listing Home Improvements That Buyers Can't Resist

By Xtremes Marketing | Published Jun 14 2023 2:13AM

10 Home Improvements That Buyers Can't Resist

Preparing your home for sale can be an exciting yet daunting task. As a homeowner, you want to ensure that your property stands out from the competition and captivates potential buyers.

Introduction

Nearly half of homeowners (43%) don’t think they need to update their house before listing it—but that is not what buyers think. Potential buyers want and home improvement projects that generate the highest return on investment (ROI). While traditional home improvements like kitchen remodeling and fresh coats of paint are essential, why not think outside the box and consider some unconventional yet highly effective pre-listing upgrades? In this blog, we'll explore unique and creative home improvements that buyers can't resist, giving your property an authentic edge in the market. Learn more about the misconceptions people have regarding pre-listing home improvements.

Key highlights For Pre-Listing Home Improvements in Pakistan

1. Buyer Preferences

67% of potential buyers say they only consider homes with updated features and layouts.
68% of potential buyers say the biggest deal breaker to buying a home is disrepair and wear and tear.
77% of potential buyers won’t consider purchasing a home that isn’t move-in ready.

2. Top Home Improvement Projects for ROI

The report identifies the top five home improvement projects that generate the highest ROI:

Kitchen refresh (painting cabinets, new appliances, new countertops, updating hardware): 377% ROI.
Refinishing hardwood floors: 348% ROI.
Basic listing prep (interior electrical updates, minor fixes): 297% ROI.
Roof replacement: 288% ROI.Carpet replacement: 280% ROI.

To put the ROI into perspective, the blog provides an example:If a homeowner spends 42,539,71 PKR to update their kitchen, they can expect to sell for an additional 20,291,444 PKR resulting in a profit of 16,037,473 PKR.

3. Focus on Key Areas

The report highlights that refreshing key areas of a home, such as a kitchen or a bathroom, deliver higher returns than full remodels. A bathroom refresh has a 256% ROI and a full bathroom remodel has a 120% ROI.

4. Competitive Housing Market

The housing market has slowed down significantly since last year, with home sales in April 2023 being 23% lower than the previous year. This means buyers have more options to choose from, making the market increasingly competitive. In such a market, it becomes crucial for sellers to attract potential buyers and make their homes stand out.

5. Pay-at-Closing Solution

According to the report, 77% of homeowners said they would choose an agent who offered a pay-at-closing solution over those who didn’t. This type of payment arrangement can be attractive to sellers, as it eliminates the need for upfront costs for home improvements.

6. Install Smart Home Technology

In the age of technology, smart home features have become increasingly popular among buyers. Upgrade your home with smart devices like programmable thermostats, automated lighting systems, or voice-controlled assistants. These futuristic additions not only enhance convenience and comfort but also highlight your home's modernity and appeal to tech-savvy buyers seeking a connected living experience.

7. Embrace Sustainable Living

In today's environmentally conscious world, showcasing sustainable features can be a major draw for buyers. Consider incorporating eco-friendly upgrades into your home, such as solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, or a rainwater harvesting system. These eco-conscious additions not only appeal to environmentally-conscious buyers but also offer long-term cost savings, making your property even more desirable.

8. Create an Outdoor Oasis

It's no secret that curb appeal plays a significant role in attracting buyers. While most sellers focus on sprucing up the front yard and entryway, why not take it a step further and create an outdoor oasis? Consider adding a cozy seating area, a fire pit, or even a small water feature to your backyard. Transforming your outdoor space into a tranquil retreat will not only wow potential buyers but also offer a unique selling point that sets your home apart.

9. Showcase Versatile Spaces

Buyers often look for homes that offer flexibility to adapt to their evolving needs. Instead of sticking to traditional room setups, consider repurposing spaces to showcase versatility. Convert an underutilized room into a home office, gym, or entertainment area. Creating multi-functional spaces demonstrates the potential of your home and sparks the imagination of buyers, helping them envision how they can personalize the space to fit their lifestyle.

10. Highlight Unique Architectural Features

Every home has its own distinct architectural elements that make it special. Embrace and enhance these unique features to make your property truly memorable. Whether it's exposed brick walls, vaulted ceilings, or a captivating view, emphasize these characteristics through strategic staging and lighting. Draw attention to what sets your home apart and leave a lasting impression on potential buyers.

How to Attract Potential Buyers

Sellers often have misconceptions about the need for full renovations before listing their homes. Simple refreshes in key areas like the kitchen or floors can yield higher returns with less work. It emphasizes the importance of making smart and savvy choices to attract potential buyers in a competitive housing market. Remember, selling a home is not just about the physical features—it's about crafting an experience that evokes emotion and creates a connection with potential buyers. By infusing creativity and authenticity into your pre-listing upgrades, you'll be well on your way to selling your home for its full potential. Happy selling!

Conclusion

When it comes to pre-listing home improvements, thinking outside the box can yield extraordinary results. By incorporating unconventional upgrades that showcase your home's personality and cater to buyers' desires, you'll create a truly unique and authentic selling experience. From creating outdoor oases to embracing sustainability and technology, these creative enhancements will make your property irresistible in a competitive market.So, step away from the ordinary and elevate your home's allure with these unconventional pre-listing improvements that buyers simply can't resist.