So, you're planning to stay in your home for another year or two... but then you know you will almost certainly sell your home... and you're wondering if you should update ___ or upgrade ___ in your home.  You wouldn't have much time to enjoy the changes yourself, so you're mainly wondering whether it is worthwhile to make the changes in order to sell for a better price or on more favorable terms.

The upgrades in question might be new kitchen countertops, new flooring, updating the bathrooms, painting the main living spaces, or any other number of other updates or upgrades.

So, should you make the changes?  Should you update your home in this way if you will be selling in a year or two?

One way to think about this decision is to look around at other homes... in your neighborhood, or nearby and in your price range.

Do these similar homes have the updates that you are considering?  If so, it would probably be best to make the upgrades as well.  If not, you might be fine not to make the updates!

Why does it matter?

If homes like yours - with similar square footage, the same general layout, of a similar age - have already upgraded the areas you are debating, that might be a sign that buyers will expect those features when you are ready to sell your home. On the flip side, if no one’s touched their original oak cabinets or oh so colorful 90's tile, you might not need to make the updates after all!

So, Should You Upgrade?

Before you commit to a project, check recent listings or recent sales in your neighborhood, school district and/or price range. Feel free to ask for help - I can help you find the best houses to be using as a context.