🛠️Should You Renovate Before Selling?
Here’s What Actually Pays Off in Hawai‘i
One of the most common questions I get from sellers is:
“Should I fix it up first—or just sell it as is?”
And the truth is… there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It really depends on the house, the location, and what kind of buyer experience we expect—whether they’re looking for something move-in ready, a project to make their own, or a rare piece of land with big potential.
Here on Maui, every property is different. An oceanfront cottage in Kuau is a totally different conversation than a home in a residential neighborhood in Kula or a private estate in Makena. But there are some things we always look at to make the smartest call.
1. What Are You Really Selling?
Let’s get honest: Are buyers going to fall in love with the house or the location?
If your property has a killer ocean view, acreage, or a rare spot in a tight-knit neighborhood, you might not need to do much at all. Sometimes the land and setting are the real value—and buyers will want to make it their own anyway.
But if the home is likely going to be someone’s primary residence, especially in areas where there’s more inventory, we might want to make it feel a little more fresh and inviting. It doesn’t mean a full renovation—but a few thoughtful updates can go a long way.
2. Who’s the Likely Buyer?
This is where local experience really helps. We look at who’s buying in your area—and what they expect.
Are we appealing to someone looking for a home they can live in right away?
Or will this be an investor or second-home buyer who plans to remodel anyway?
Is the home financeable in its current condition, or does it need some repairs to even get a loan?
If it’s clean, safe, and functional, you don’t always need to go big. Sometimes it’s better to leave the bigger changes to the next owner—especially if it’s priced accordingly.
3. What Actually Makes a Difference
Here are the things that consistently make a home feel more appealing—without spending a ton:
✔️ Fresh coat of neutral paint
✔️ Updated light fixtures or cabinet hardware
✔️ A little love to the front entry or landscaping
✔️ Minor bathroom refreshes—think mirrors, faucets, or new towels
✔️ Staging + intentional styling ….. If you know me than you know how important this is !!
4. It’s Not Always About the Renovation—Sometimes It’s the Energy
Honestly, some homes just need a shift in feeling more than a new kitchen.
That’s where a trusted styling company comes in. A little intention, some rearranging, maybe a few curated pieces—it can change everything. Buyers walk in and feel like they belong there. That connection is what sells homes.
The Bottom Line
You don’t need to renovate to sell well—but you do need a clear plan.
If you’re not sure whether to update, touch up, or simply tidy and list—let’s walk through it together. I’ll give you honest advice, tell you where to focus—and where to skip the stress.
Every home is a little different. And together, we’ll figure out the best way to tell its next story.
Wendy Stroh Ruppenthal
REALTOR®
Coldwell Banker Island Properties
RS- 86378
c| 808.280.9991
