Types of Pre-Listing Updates | Renovations vs. Refreshes

Even the most cared for homes can benefit from pre-listing updates, but updates vary from simply refreshing to fully renovating. Some homes simply need a refresh — cosmetic updates like a fresh coat of paint, a light kitchen makeover, and minor repairs —while others call for a major renovation of every space. Whether a property needs a refresh or a renovation depends on the condition of the home, of course, but other factors are equally as important. What is the seller’s target sale price? How does the property compare to homes recently sold at that price point? What do buyers in this neighborhood expect in a property at this price point?

If a homeowner consults with a typical general contractor for advice on which renovations they should invest in prior to listing, the GC is likely to suggest a full renovation, no matter what. That’s because a bigger scope of work means more money for them, and (unlike Curbio) the GC is going to get paid when the work is finished, regardless of whether or not the improvements actually help the house sell.

The truth is that in many cases a pre-listing refresh can have dramatic results, greatly increase the value of the home, and decrease days on market. Let’s put this idea to the test.

Was this pre-listing project a refresh or renovation?

Even though it looks like a completely different kitchen, all Curbio did in this kitchen was paint the cabinets, paint the walls, and replace the backsplash. Those small changes made the dark countertops appear more modern.

Kitchen refresh options:

• Paint cabinets and replace hardware
• Remove wall paper and paint walls a neutral color
• Replace outdated appliances with standard, stainless steel appliances
• Replace outdated light fixtures

Learn more about kitchen refreshes.

What about this bathroom update — is it a refresh or a renovation?

This is a refresh—in fact, all Curbio did was remove the wallpaper, paint, and replace the mirror and hardware.

Bathroom refresh options:

• Deep clean and declutter
• Glaze tile
• Replace shower doors
• Paint vanity cabinets and replace countertop and mirror
• Replace finishes and light fixtures
• Remove wallpaper and paint walls a neutral color

Learn more about bathroom refresh options.

Another pre-listing bathroom refresh example

By painting the cabinets, replacing the light fixtures, and replacing the flooring, our pre-listing updates modernized the window and tub.

Here’s an example of a refresh of a living room

We unified the space with cost-efficient LVT and painted the walls to make the space feel larger and cohesive, rather than dark and dated.

Living space and bedroom refresh options:

• Clean and stretch carpet instead of replacing
• Use LVT for flooring
• Remove wallpaper
• Paint walls neutral colors
• Replace outdated light fixtures

Pre-listing updates with Curbio: refresh, renovate, and earn more when you sell!

Our award-winning turnkey solution allows homeowners to address pre-listing updates strategically. Whether your home could benefit from refreshing basic features or fully renovations, your home improvements will be hassle-free and our pay-at-closing model makes our services in reach, no matter your finances. Learn more.