Should You Renovate Before Selling Your Reno Home? Tips from The Kirby Group

When you’re preparing to sell your home in Reno, one of the biggest questions that comes up is:

“Should I renovate before selling?”

The truth is—it depends. At The Kirby Group, we’ve helped hundreds of sellers navigate this decision based on their budget, timeline, and the current Reno real estate market.

In this post, we’ll break down:

• When renovations are worth it (and when they’re not)

• Which updates offer the highest return in Reno

• How to make your home stand out without overspending

🛠️ When Renovating Makes Sense Before Selling

In some situations, strategic improvements can dramatically increase your home’s appeal and value. You should consider renovating if:

✅ Your home is noticeably outdated

Buyers in newer neighborhoods often expect modern kitchens, clean bathrooms, and move-in-ready spaces. Even small cosmetic updates can help.

✅ The repairs would show up on an inspection anyway

Think: roof leaks, old HVAC systems, or major plumbing issues. Fixing these ahead of time can prevent deals from falling through later.

✅ You're competing in a buyers' market

If inventory is high in your price range, renovated homes usually sell faster—and for more.

🚫 When NOT to Renovate Before Selling

Renovations aren’t always the best move. You may want to skip them if:

❌ You need to sell quickly

If time is of the essence (due to relocation, probate, or divorce), investing in renovations may not yield a timely return.

❌ You won’t recoup the cost

Extensive remodels (like full kitchen overhauls) often don’t give dollar-for-dollar returns. We can help you run the numbers before investing.

❌ Buyers are looking for a fixer

In older neighborhoods like Old Southwest Reno, some buyers are actively seeking homes they can renovate themselves.

💡 Reno Renovations with the Best ROI

Based on our experience and local buyer feedback, here are the top updates that tend to pay off in Reno:

• Fresh paint (neutral colors always win)

• New flooring or deep carpet cleaning

• Updated light fixtures and cabinet hardware

• Curb appeal touch-ups (landscaping, mailbox, paint)

• Minor bathroom and kitchen improvements (new faucets, resurfacing cabinets)

🛑 Skip these unless absolutely needed:

• Full kitchen remodels

• Swimming pools or hot tubs

• Luxury upgrades that price your home out of the neighborhood

🧠 What The Kirby Group Recommends

Before you start swinging a hammer or spending on contractors, we suggest a simple 3-step process:

1. Schedule a Walkthrough with Our Team
   We’ll identify quick wins and give honest advice on where to invest—or not.

2. Get a Market Comparison
   We’ll compare your home with similar sold listings in Reno to see what buyers are paying for.

3. Review Your Timeline + Goals
   Whether you want to sell as-is, renovate lightly, or go all-in, we’ll help you make the best choice for your situation.

🎯 Final Thoughts

Renovating before selling can be a smart move—but only when it’s strategic. At The Kirby Group, we’ll help you avoid over-investing and focus on what really matters: getting your home sold for top dollar, in your ideal timeframe.

📞 Call us today at 775-830-2692
📧 Email: KirbyRealEstateGroup@Gmail.com
🌐 Visit: northernnevadahomepro.com

Thinking of selling your Reno home? Get personalized advice from real estate experts who know this market inside and out—The Kirby Group.