This is one of the most expensive mistakes sellers make. Most renovation spend does not translate dollar-for-dollar into sale price. GeeVee uses comparable sales data to tell you exactly which improvements add value in your suburb.

What the Data Says About Pre-Sale Renovation ROI

Per CoreLogic and agent comparable analysis across inner-north Melbourne:

• Fresh paint throughout: Cost $8k-$15k. Returns $20k-$40k in buyer perception. ROI: 2-3x. Do it.
• Landscaping and kerb appeal: Cost $5k-$10k. Returns $15k-$25k. ROI: 2-3x. Do it.
• Kitchen renovation: Cost $30k-$60k. Returns $20k-$40k in most suburbs. ROI: 0.5-0.8x. Usually avoid.
• Bathroom renovation: Cost $20k-$40k. Returns $15k-$25k. ROI: 0.5-0.8x. Usually avoid.
• New carpet and flooring: Cost $8k-$15k. Returns $15k-$25k. ROI: 1.5-2x. Usually worthwhile.
• Declutter and styling: Cost $3k-$6k styling. Returns $15k-$30k in auction competition. ROI: 4-6x. Always do it.

The Golden Rule of Pre-Sale Renovation

Present, do not improve. Buyers pay for potential. A cosmetically tired but structurally sound property presented well (clean, styled, painted) almost always outperforms a heavily renovated one where the buyer is paying for your taste, not their own.

When to Renovate Before Selling

• The property has structural or presentation issues that will cause buyers to walk away at inspection
• The suburb’s buyers expect turnkey properties (check comparable sales)
• You are selling in a buyer’s market and need to stand out from competing stock

When NOT to Renovate

• Development sites — buyers are paying for land, not the building
• Heritage properties where buyers want original character
• Strong seller’s markets where competition handles presentation issues

Ask GeeVee: Pre-Sale Renovation ROI for Your Suburb

GeeVee analyses comparable sales in your suburb to tell you exactly what buyers are paying for and which improvements add measurable value.

Access free: collings.com.au/portal