Before real estate, Steve Lowe worked as a builder. That background shapes how we look at homes. Some upgrades pay back when you sell. Others are lovely to live with but rarely return what they cost.
Usually worth it. Fresh paint in light, neutral colours. Good lighting. Repairs to anything a building inspector would flag: leaks, cracked tiles, rotten timber, poor drainage. A tidy, low-maintenance garden and a clean, solid front entry. Better insulation and heating, which buyers now look for on the energy rating.
Worth it, if done well. A kitchen or bathroom refresh: new benchtops, tapware and lighting, rather than a full rebuild. Flooring that ties rooms together.
Rarely worth it for the money. Pools, highly personal finishes, and expensive extensions that take a home well above the street's price range. Unapproved structures can also cost you later, so get approval first.
The best upgrade depends on your street, your home and your timeframe. Ask your agent before you spend. A short walkthrough of your home can save thousands.
