The classic “doer-upper” has always appealed to some buyers, but tastes may be shifting. With rising renovation costs and tighter budgets, many buyers now want homes that are ready to move straight into.
So, should you invest in improvements before you put your home on the market?
What buyers are looking for now
A new survey* suggests buyers are increasingly prioritising properties that are finished and ready to live in. High borrowing costs and the expense of materials mean fewer people want to take on major projects.
The study found that the quality and finish of a home now ranks higher on buyers’ wish lists than scope for extensions or conversions.
Paresh Raja, CEO of Market Financial Solutions, explained:
“With borrowing costs still above pre-2022 levels, buyers are seeking predictability and favouring homes that are ready to move into rather than those needing extensive work. A ‘doer-upper’ brings uncertainty around costs and delays, which can make financing tricky.”
That said, there’s still a place for every type of property. Some buyers enjoy the process of transforming a home, while others simply want the keys, their furniture and a cup of tea.
Simple ways to make your home move-in ready
1. Clean, clean, clean
It sounds obvious, but deep cleaning can transform how your home feels. Fresh, tidy spaces help buyers picture themselves living there.
2. Paint and decorate
A coat of paint is one of the quickest, most affordable ways to freshen up. Stick to light, neutral tones to make rooms feel bigger and brighter.
3. Fix the small stuff
Loose handles, squeaky doors or cracked tiles can make buyers think there’s more maintenance lurking underneath. Take a weekend to tick off those little repairs.
4. Refresh kitchens and bathrooms
These rooms often make or break a sale. You don’t need a full refit – replacing taps, re-grouting tiles or updating cabinet handles can make a big difference.
What’s right for your home?
For many sellers in Thetford and Breckland, small updates are enough to give their home an edge without major expense.
If buyers can picture moving straight in, it can often mean a faster sale and stronger offers. But if your home has character and potential, marketing it “as is” might attract the right buyer too.
Every property is different, so the best approach is to get professional advice before you decide.
If you’re thinking of selling, contact us for a free valuation and tailored marketing advice. We’ll help you understand what buyers in today’s market are looking for – and whether it’s worth doing any work before you list.
*Source: Market Financial Solutions, Homebuyer Wishlist Survey
Article by Andrew Overman | Partner | Location Location East
