As a real estate broker who’s walked through hundreds of homes across Somers, Enfield, and Ellington, one question I hear from nearly every seller is, “Should I renovate before putting my home on the market?”

The honest answer is: it depends on your home, your goals, and the current market conditions. Over the years, I’ve seen both sides — sellers who invested wisely and saw an immediate return, and others who overspent on upgrades that didn’t move the needle on their sale price.

Here’s what I tell my clients: focus on cost-effective improvements that enhance appeal and fix visible issues. A fresh coat of neutral paint, updated lighting, modern hardware, and professional staging can dramatically improve first impressions without breaking the bank. Simple, clean, and move-in ready always sells faster.

Major renovations, like full kitchen remodels or bathroom overhauls, aren’t always necessary — especially if buyers in your area prefer to customize finishes themselves. Before investing in big projects, I run a comparative market analysis to see what competing homes offer and whether those upgrades would truly increase your property’s value.

In today’s market, buyers prioritize well-maintained homes over fully renovated ones. They want properties that feel cared for, even if they plan to make changes later. That’s why I always walk my sellers through a detailed pre-listing consultation — highlighting which updates are worth tackling and which are better left alone.

Sometimes, a few small changes can make all the difference. I’ve helped clients spend a few hundred dollars on touch-ups that resulted in thousands more at closing. The key is knowing where to invest, and that’s where experience matters.

If you’re considering selling and wondering what’s worth fixing or updating, let’s talk. I’ll walk through your home with a buyer’s eye and give you straightforward advice that helps you maximize your return — without overspending.

Written by Michael Kusy, Evermark Property Group | (860) 402-5872