The upgrades that add the most value when selling a home in Roanoke are kitchen and bathroom updates, fresh interior paint, enhanced curb appeal, and energy-efficient improvements. These updates make homes more attractive to buyers and often result in faster sales and higher offers. Eric and Amber Gerner of Gerner Co Real Estate help sellers identify which improvements deliver the best return before listing.
Why Upgrades Matter When You Sell a Home
When preparing to sell a home, not all upgrades are equal. Some updates attract more buyers and provide a higher return on investment. In the Roanoke Valley, buyers often prioritize move-in ready homes with modern finishes. Eric and Amber Gerner advise sellers on where to spend and where to save when preparing to list.
Kitchen Improvements That Pay Off
– Why It Matters: The kitchen is often the heart of the home and a top priority for buyers.
– High-Value Updates: Replacing countertops with granite or quartz, upgrading appliances to stainless steel, and refinishing cabinets.
– ROI in Roanoke: Even a minor kitchen remodel can return 70–80% of its cost at resale.
Example: A Cave Spring seller upgraded their counters and painted cabinets, helping the home sell in 9 days with multiple offers.
Bathroom Updates That Boost Value
– Popular Upgrades: New vanities, modern fixtures, updated lighting, and fresh tile work.
– ROI: Bathroom remodels often return 65–75% of cost, especially when they replace outdated finishes.
– Local Trend: Buyers in Roanoke and Smith Mountain Lake prefer neutral spa-like finishes.
Fresh Paint and Flooring: Simple, High Impact
– Paint: Neutral tones like light gray or soft beige appeal to the broadest range of buyers.
– Flooring: Refinished hardwood or new luxury vinyl plank can modernize an older home.
– ROI: Both projects are relatively inexpensive and often return over 100% of the cost.
Example: A South Roanoke bungalow received fresh paint and refinished floors and went under contract in just 6 days.
Curb Appeal: First Impressions Count
– Exterior Paint or Power Washing: Makes the home look cared for.
– Landscaping: Mulch, trimmed shrubs, and seasonal flowers.
– Front Door: A fresh coat of paint or new hardware creates a welcoming entry.
– ROI: Landscaping improvements can add 5–10% to a home’s value.
Energy-Efficient Upgrades Buyers Notice
– Windows and Insulation: Lower utility costs appeal to Roanoke buyers.
– Smart Thermostats: Affordable and attractive to tech-savvy homeowners.
– Appliances: ENERGY STAR appliances reduce long-term costs.
– Local Note: Energy efficiency is especially appealing in older Roanoke homes with higher utility bills.
Top Upgrades and Their ROI in Roanoke, VA
| Upgrade | Approximate ROI | Local Example |
| Minor Kitchen Remodel | 70–80% | Cave Spring kitchen refresh helped sell in 9 days |
| Bathroom Remodel | 65–75% | Updated bath in Hidden Valley attracted multiple offers |
| Fresh Paint | 100%+ | South Roanoke bungalow sold in 6 days |
| Flooring Upgrade | 80–100% | New LVP flooring in Vinton home sped up sale |
| Curb Appeal Improvements | 50–100% | Landscaping refresh at SML home boosted showings |
| Energy-Efficient Windows | 60–70% | Roanoke Colonial saw lower DOM after updates |
How Eric and Amber Gerner Guide Sellers on Upgrades
– Market Insight: They know which upgrades matter most to buyers in Roanoke and Smith Mountain Lake.
– Trusted Vendor Network: They connect sellers with contractors, stagers, and landscapers.
– Tailored Advice: Recommendations based on your home’s price point and neighborhood.
– Proven Success: Their listings consistently sell faster and at higher prices because they focus on smart improvements.
Conclusion: Invest Wisely, Sell Confidently
Not all upgrades are created equal. In Roanoke, VA, focusing on kitchens, bathrooms, paint, flooring, curb appeal, and energy efficiency provides the best return. Eric and Amber Gerner at Gerner Co Real Estate help sellers prioritize the right improvements to maximize value. If you’re planning to sell your home, contact them for a personalized consultation on which updates will help your property stand out.