Should You Renovate Before Selling?
Here’s What Adds the Most Value in Toronto Homes
When preparing to sell your home in Toronto, one of the biggest questions homeowners face is: Should I renovate before listing? In many cases, the answer is yes — but only if you focus on the right areas. Strategic renovations can significantly boost your home’s resale value, help it stand out in a competitive market, and reduce time on the market.
At Sash Build, we’ve worked with many Toronto homeowners looking to get the most out of their sale by making smart, well-planned upgrades. In this article, we’ll guide you through which renovations add the most value, which ones to skip, and how to approach the process with a return on investment in mind.
Why Renovate Before Selling?
Today’s Toronto buyers expect homes to be move-in ready. Dated kitchens, tired bathrooms, worn flooring, and dark interiors can turn off potential buyers and lower your home’s appeal. On the other hand, a clean, modern, and functional space helps buyers envision themselves living in the home — which can lead to higher offers.
Renovating before selling isn’t about designing your dream space. It’s about making thoughtful updates that maximize your home’s potential and broad appeal without overspending.
The Best Renovations for Resale Value
Not all renovations deliver the same return. Based on industry trends and real estate feedback in Toronto, these upgrades consistently offer the best value:
Kitchen Updates
The kitchen is the heart of the home and a top priority for buyers. A full kitchen renovation can offer a return of 70 to 85 percent, while smaller updates such as replacing countertops, cabinet refacing, or upgrading hardware can have even higher ROI. Stick with neutral tones, quartz or granite countertops, and modern lighting.
Bathroom Improvements
Bathrooms are another major selling feature. Even simple changes — like updating vanities, mirrors, or tile — can modernize the space and attract more attention. Adding a second bathroom, if your home only has one, can significantly increase value and marketability.
Fresh Paint and Cosmetic Touch-Ups
A fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective ways to brighten your home. Stick with neutral, modern tones that appeal to a wide audience. Also consider small improvements like updated door handles, new light fixtures, or clean trim and baseboards.
Flooring Upgrades
Old carpet or mismatched flooring can quickly turn off buyers. Replacing carpet with vinyl plank or laminate flooring is a relatively affordable way to modernize the space. If you already have hardwood, consider refinishing it for a fresh look.
Curb Appeal Enhancements
First impressions matter. Buyers often form opinions within seconds of arriving. Clean up the landscaping, repaint the front door, install new house numbers or exterior lights, and ensure the pathway is clean and inviting. These simple changes create a welcoming experience before a buyer even walks inside.
What Renovations to Avoid
Not every project adds value. Some upgrades may appeal to your personal taste but not to the average buyer. Here are a few things to avoid:
• Overly custom designs or bold styles that could alienate buyers with different preferences
• Luxury features like built-in sound systems, heated floors, or steam showers that add cost without guaranteed ROI
• High-end appliances, especially if the rest of the kitchen is basic or outdated
• Basement renovations with specialized purposes (e.g., home gyms or home theatres) unless the buyer demographic supports it
The goal is to appeal to the widest possible range of buyers while staying within a practical budget.
Should You Stage After Renovating?
Yes. Once renovations are complete, staging helps buyers emotionally connect to the space. You don’t have to stage the entire home — even focusing on the kitchen, living room, and primary bedroom can be effective.
Staging allows your renovations to shine by showing off the layout and making the space feel larger, cleaner, and more inviting. If hiring a professional stager isn’t feasible, simple improvements like decluttering, fresh linens, a few neutral art pieces, and greenery can go a long way.
Renovate with Resale in Mind
At Sash Build, we help Toronto homeowners make smart renovation decisions with resale in mind. We understand what buyers in this market are looking for — and what upgrades get the most attention and return. Whether you’re considering a bathroom update, a kitchen refresh, or cosmetic changes to increase buyer appeal, we’ll work with you to create a plan that suits your budget and timeline.
We also coordinate with realtors and stagers to ensure your home is presented at its best, giving you every advantage in the selling process.
Ready to Sell? Start with a Smart Renovation Strategy
Renovating before selling your home in Toronto doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. With the right plan and experienced professionals, you can transform your home into a buyer magnet and increase your return at sale time.
Contact Sash Build today for a free consultation. We’ll walk you through your options and help you decide which renovations are worth your time and investment — so you can sell with confidence and peace of mind.
