Selling a home can feel like a money pit, especially when your agent keeps suggesting upgrades. One Arlington, Texas homeowner had already spent $20,000 on updates—paint, flooring, and minor renovations—when their agent suggested an $8,000 new driveway. The goal? Sell the house for $460,000. But is it worth it?
🎯 Focus on What Moves the Needle
You’re already on the right track. Updates like fresh paint and flooring often have the highest return on investment. According to Zillow home-trends expert Amanda Pendleton:
“There are three renovations everyone should make before selling: painting, cleaning/replacing carpets, and landscaping. These give the best ROI.”
Other upgrades, like a new driveway, may or may not help—depending on how much it actually improves the curb appeal.
Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist at the National Association of Realtors, explains:
“Curb appeal is a very, very strong factor for home buyers who look at the home online.”
A new concrete driveway could increase your home’s value by up to $10,000, according to Angi. But if the driveway isn’t visibly bad, cheaper landscaping fixes—like hedge trimming and lawn care—could boost your curb appeal for $4,800, adding roughly $5,000 in value.
🧩 Get a Second Opinion
Before dropping another $8,000, consider asking another agent if they’d make the same recommendation. If multiple professionals flag it, it might be worth it. If not, it may be unnecessary.
Pendleton adds:
“Investing a lot up front may not pay off, but being willing to make concessions at the end of a deal could be smarter.”
⏳ Remember: It’s a Buyer’s Market
Right now, Dallas-Fort Worth is a buyer’s market. Rising inventory means homes are sitting longer, often around 53 days—a 30% increase from last year. Buyers are more selective, negotiating, and asking for concessions.
Renovations alone won’t necessarily speed up the sale. Patience and strategy—like knowing when to negotiate—can matter more than spending more money upfront.
✅ Bottom Line
You’ve already done the heavy lifting with paint and flooring. For curb appeal, cheaper fixes may give you a good ROI without breaking the bank. Get a second opinion on the driveway, be patient, and remember: you always have the final say on offers and repairs.
Related: Buying Raw Land? Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Break Ground