Home Maintenance vs. Upgrades: What’s the Real Difference?

By Rachael Richards

Rachael has been a top real estate agent in the Phoenix area for over 20 years. She and her team are consistently in the top 1% and have worked through all types of markets. Selling over 200 homes each year while maintaining a core value that clients come first, Rachael and her team have a wealth of experience and industry knowledge.

Are you thinking about selling your home but wondering if it’s worth it to make upgrades? You’re not alone! Many homeowners have the same question, and today, I’m here to clear up the confusion.

What’s the difference between maintenance and upgrades? Home maintenance are tasks that keep your home running smoothly, like replacing the roof, air conditioner, or water heater. While these repairs don’t add any extra value to your home, they show that you’ve taken care of the property. Keeping up with maintenance helps your home hold its value, especially in today’s market.

Now, when it comes to upgrades, things get a bit more interesting. Upgrades are projects like remodeling your kitchen, upgrading your bathroom, or improving your landscaping. These types of changes can increase your home’s value, but here’s the catch: you won’t get back every dollar you put in. So, if you spend $10,000 on a kitchen remodel, you might only see a portion of that back when selling.

What should you focus on? If you’re planning to stay in your home for a while, upgrading for personal enjoyment is a great idea. Imagine enjoying a brand-new kitchen every day—sounds wonderful, right? These upgrades will make your home more enjoyable, but keep in mind, they’re not all about getting back your money when you sell.

Our market ready program. If you’re looking to sell soon, it’s essential to know which upgrades will give you the best return. With my Market Ready Program, I’ll walk you through your home, step by step, to help you focus on the right upgrades. Whether it’s sprucing up your curb appeal or tackling smaller fixes, we’ll ensure your home is prepared to sell for the best possible price.

The right upgrades and maintenance could be the difference between a quick sale and a home sitting on the market for months. If you’re thinking about buying or selling, you don’t have to do it alone. You can call or text me at 480-270-5782 or email me at info@rhouserealty.com. I’ll help you get the most value out of your property.