Thinking about putting your house on the market? Before you list, it’s worth asking: what can I do to increase my home’s value? Whether you live in Bellbrook, Mason, Cincinnati or anywhere in between, making smart updates before selling can help you attract more buyers — and potentially secure a higher sale price.
At the Cin-Day Group of Coldwell Banker Heritage, we help homeowners across Southwest Ohio prepare their homes for success. Here are our top professional tips to boost your property’s value and make it stand out in today’s market.
1. Start with a Local Market Evaluation
Every improvement starts with understanding your home’s current position in the market. Before you invest in upgrades, request a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) from the Cin-Day Group.
A CMA compares your home to similar properties that have recently sold in your area — giving you a clear idea of what today’s buyers are paying for homes like yours. This ensures your improvement budget focuses on projects that actually deliver returns in the Southwest Ohio market.
2. Focus on First Impressions: Curb Appeal Counts
Your home’s exterior is the first thing buyers see — and it can make or break their interest. Small updates can go a long way:
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Refresh landscaping with trimmed shrubs, fresh mulch, and colorful flowers.
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Repaint or power wash your front door and siding.
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Replace worn-out house numbers or outdoor lighting.
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Keep the lawn green, neat, and edged.
In neighborhoods like Oakwood and Hyde Park, the well-maintained exteriors immediately convey a sense of pride, value, and care to potential buyers.
3. Upgrade Where It Matters Most
Not every renovation pays off equally. In Southwest Ohio, buyers consistently favor updated kitchens, bathrooms, and functional spaces. The best improvements often include:
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Minor kitchen refreshes like new cabinet hardware, backsplash updates, or modern light fixtures — these tend to yield 70–80% of your investment back.
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Bathroom updates such as replacing the vanity, mirror, and lighting, which often return 60–75%.
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New flooring or carpet, especially if your current materials are dated or worn, with a 60–70% ROI.
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Fresh interior paint, which can deliver a 100% or greater return because it transforms the space affordably.
Neutral colors such warm whites, soft grays, or beige tones appeal to most buyers and make rooms feel bright and open.
4. Improve Energy Efficiency
Energy-conscious upgrades not only attract modern buyers but can also reduce your carrying costs while your home is listed. Simple steps include:
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Replacing old windows or sealing gaps for better insulation.
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Installing LED lighting and smart thermostats.
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Servicing your HVAC system to ensure it’s running efficiently.
Buyers in Southwest Ohio appreciate homes that are comfortable and cost-effective year-round, especially through our seasonal weather swings.
5. Declutter, Clean, and Stage Like a Pro
A clean, well-staged home helps buyers imagine themselves living there. Before listing:
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Declutter countertops, closets, and storage areas.
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Deep clean every surface, including baseboards and windows.
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Consider professional staging or virtual staging for a polished presentation.
Cin-Day Group agents can provide light staging for free in some cases, or we can connect you with trusted local stagers who specialize in full-staging to highlight what makes your home shine.
6. Work with a Local Real Estate Expert
No upgrade replaces the value of a knowledgeable, connected real estate agent. The Cin-Day Group knows how to position homes competitively in Southwest Ohio — from pricing strategies to presentation and marketing.
When you’re ready to buy or sell a home, our team will walk you through each step to ensure your investment pays off.
Ready to Increase Your Home’s Value Before Selling?
Let’s make your home the one buyers can’t wait to see. Contact the Cin-Day Group of Coldwell Banker Heritage today for a personalized valuation and preparation plan designed specifically for your neighborhood.
📞 Call or text us today or visit Cin-DayGroup.com to get started!