Top Renovations That Boost Home Sale Prices: Fix or Sell As-Is? A Seller’s Renovation Guide

Should You Renovate or Sell As-Is? Here’s How to Decide

If you’re thinking about selling your house in Maryland, you might be wondering whether to invest in renovations to increase its value or sell it as-is and avoid the hassle. Making the wrong decision can cost you time, money, and potential buyers. Some home upgrades boost property value, while others barely make a difference. If your house needs repairs, you may feel stuck between investing in costly renovations or accepting a lower price.

Understanding what upgrades truly matter and when selling as-is is the smarter choice can help you make the best decision. This guide will help you determine which home renovations have the highest return on investment, when it makes sense to sell as-is instead of spending money on repairs, and how to sell your house fast in Maryland—without expensive upgrades.

Current Situation: What’s Stopping You from Selling?

Many homeowners struggle with the renovate or sell-as-is dilemma. One of the biggest concerns is figuring out which renovations actually increase property value. Some worry about how much time and money upgrades will require, while others question whether buyers will still negotiate even after investing in repairs.

If you’re feeling uncertain, you’re not alone. Selling a home comes with a lot of decisions, and knowing whether renovations will truly pay off is one of the biggest. Below, we’ll break down the home improvements that add real value and when selling as-is is the better move.

Home Upgrades That Increase Property Value

Not all home renovations are created equal. Some home upgrades provide a high return on investment, while others have little impact on the final sale price. Understanding which renovations actually increase home value can help homeowners decide whether to invest in updates or sell as-is.

Minor kitchen remodels tend to have one of the highest returns, with an average cost of $15,000 and a return on investment of 70-80%. Bathroom renovations, which typically cost around $10,500, provide an estimated ROI of 60-70%. Curb appeal enhancements, such as fresh landscaping and exterior paint, can cost around $3,000 but offer a return of 80-100%. Energy-efficient upgrades like new windows and HVAC systems, which typically cost around $8,000, have an ROI of 60-75%. Refinishing hardwood floors is one of the best investments, with an average cost of $3,000 and a full 100% return on investment.

Some of the best cost-effective upgrades include kitchen updates such as repainting cabinets and updating hardware, bathroom refreshes with new vanities and modern lighting, curb appeal improvements like a new front door and fresh exterior paint, and energy-efficient upgrades that lower utility bills and attract buyers. If you’re looking to sell your house in Maryland for the highest price, these are the best areas to focus on.

When Selling As-Is Makes More Sense

While renovations can add value, they’re not always the best choice. Some homeowners may find that selling as-is is the better option, especially when repairs are costly or time is limited.

Selling as-is may be the right decision if your home needs major repairs such as foundation work, roof replacements, or outdated plumbing and electrical systems. If you don’t have the time or money to handle renovations, selling your home in its current condition may be the most practical option. Homeowners who need to sell quickly due to relocation, divorce, inheritance, or foreclosure often find that selling as-is helps them close the deal faster.

Market conditions also play a role in whether to renovate or sell as-is. In some real estate markets, renovated homes sell for significantly higher prices, while in others, buyers are more willing to purchase homes in as-is condition. Additionally, those who want to avoid the hassle of showings, inspections, and agent fees may find that selling as-is is the best solution.

Renovations also come with their own challenges. Home upgrades can take weeks or even months to complete, requiring homeowners to manage contractors and unexpected delays. Additionally, homeowners must pay for renovations upfront, without any guarantee of how much extra value they will add to the final sale price. Even after renovations, buyers may still request additional repairs or negotiate for price reductions.

For homeowners looking to avoid these challenges, selling as-is offers a simpler and more predictable outcome.

Sell As-Is vs. Renovate: Side-by-Side Comparison

Deciding whether to renovate or sell as-is depends on multiple factors, including time, cost, and potential profit. Selling a renovated home can take between three to six months, whereas selling as-is can be completed in as little as seven days.

The cost of renovations can range anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the home’s condition and the updates being made. Selling as-is requires no upfront costs, making it a more budget-friendly option. While renovated homes may sell for a higher price, there is no guarantee of how much profit the homeowner will make after covering renovation costs. Selling as-is provides a guaranteed sale price, eliminating uncertainty.

The hassle level is another important factor to consider. Renovating requires working with contractors, dealing with inspections, and staging the home for showings. Selling as-is eliminates these steps, allowing for a faster, stress-free process.

3-Step Process to Decide the Best Option for You

If you’re unsure whether to renovate or sell as-is, following a simple three-step process can help you determine the best option for your situation.

First, assess your home’s condition and determine whether it requires major repairs or just cosmetic touch-ups. Homes with structural or system issues may be better suited for an as-is sale, while those needing only minor updates may benefit from a few targeted renovations.

Next, compare the costs of renovations against the potential profit. If the cost of updates is too high and the return on investment is uncertain, selling as-is may be the better choice.

Finally, get a no-obligation cash offer to see how much your home is worth in its current condition. This allows you to compare your options without committing to costly renovations upfront.

Desired Situation: A Hassle-Free Way to Sell Your House in Maryland

Selling your home doesn’t have to be stressful. Instead of spending months making repairs, dealing with contractors, and navigating the selling process, homeowners can sell their house fast in Maryland without the need for costly renovations.

For those looking for a simple and convenient way to sell, an as-is sale offers multiple advantages. Homeowners can sell without making any repairs, allowing them to move on quickly without additional expenses. Selling as-is also allows for a fast closing, with homes typically selling in as little as seven to fourteen days. Since there are no agent fees or commissions, sellers keep 100% of the sale price.

A guaranteed offer ensures that homeowners know exactly what they will receive, eliminating the uncertainty that comes with listing a home on the market. The process is also much simpler, with no need for showings, inspections, or drawn-out negotiations.

Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Option for You?

Selling a house is a big decision, and the best approach depends on the homeowner’s situation. If you have the time, money, and patience to invest in renovations, upgrading certain areas of your home can increase its value. However, if you want a fast, stress-free sale, selling as-is may be the smarter choice.

For homeowners looking for a quick and hassle-free sale, getting a fair cash offer is a great way to determine whether selling as-is is the best option.

Ace Home Buyers makes selling simple. Get a no-obligation cash offer and close on your terms—no hassle, no hidden fees, just a straightforward sale.