Sell Smarter: 2025's Top 3 Remodels

Thinking about selling your home? Smart renovations can be the difference between a quick sale at asking price and months on the market. The National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) has released their 2025 Remodeling Impact Report, revealing which projects real estate professionals recommend most for sellers looking to maximize their investment.

1. PAINT THE ENTIRE HOUSE

The Ultimate Game-Changer

Nothing transforms a home faster or more affordably than a complete paint job. Fresh paint signals to buyers that your home is move-in ready and well-maintained.

Why It Works:

Instantly modernizes any space, regardless of age

• Creates visual continuity throughout the home
• Covers scuffs, marks, and everyday wear that accumulate over years
• Allows buyers to envision themselves in the space
• Costs a fraction of other major improvements while delivering maximum impact

Smart Paint Strategies:

• Stick to neutral palettes like soft whites, warm grays, and subtle beiges
• Use semi-gloss or satin finishes in high-traffic areas
• Don't skip the trim, ceilings, and doors
• Consider light colors to make rooms feel larger and brighter

2. PAINT ONE INTERIOR ROOM

Strategic Focus for Budget-Conscious Sellers

Can't afford to paint the entire house? Target your efforts on the room that will make the biggest impression.

Best Room Candidates:

• Main living area: Where buyers spend the most time during showings
• Master bedroom: Creates a spa-like sanctuary feeling
• Kitchen: Fresh paint can update dated cabinets and walls without a full renovation
• Front entryway: First impressions set the tone for the entire showing

Maximizing Your Investment:

• Choose the room in worst condition or with the most outdated color
• Ensure your color choice flows well with adjacent spaces
• Focus on rooms with good natural light to showcase the fresh paint
• Consider a statement accent wall if appropriate for the space

3. NEW ROOFING

The Big-Ticket Item That Pays Off

While new roofing requires significant upfront investment, it addresses buyers' top concern about major home systems and can prevent deals from falling through.

Why Buyers Value New Roofs:

• Eliminates worry about immediate major repairs
• Provides decades of protection and peace of mind
• Modern materials offer better energy efficiency and storm resistance
• Significantly improves curb appeal and home presentation

When New Roofing Makes Sense:

• Your roof is approaching or over 20 years old
• Visible damage like missing shingles or granule loss
• Previous leaks or water damage
• You're in a competitive market where condition matters
• Home inspection concerns are likely

Return on Investment:

• Typically recovers 60-75% of cost at sale
• Can prevent price reductions due to roof concerns
• Often reduces time on market
• May eliminate buyer financing issues related to roof condition

Making the Right Choice for Your Sale

Budget-First Approach

Start with paint projects for immediate impact at low cost. If your roof needs attention and budget allows, tackle it before listing to avoid negotiation hurdles.

Market Considerations

In seller's markets, paint alone might be sufficient. In buyer's markets, addressing major systems like roofing can set your home apart from the competition.

Timeline Matters

Paint projects can be completed quickly before listing. Roofing requires more planning and time, so factor this into your selling timeline.

Work with Your REALTOR®

Your real estate professional knows your local market conditions and can advise which improvements will have the most impact for your specific situation and price point. They understand what buyers in your area prioritize and can help you invest your renovation dollars wisely.

The Bottom Line

These three projects represent proven strategies for preparing your home for sale. Whether you choose the comprehensive approach of painting the entire house, the targeted impact of refreshing one key room, or the major investment of new roofing, each addresses core buyer concerns about condition, maintenance, and move-in readiness.

The key is matching your improvement strategy to your budget, timeline, and local market conditions while focusing on changes that appeal to the broadest range of potential buyers.