Planning to sell this spring? While you may be tempted to hold off until the first blooms or the spring showers hit, that's actually waiting too long to get started by today’s standards.

Buyers have more options than they did a few years ago. So, it's worth it to tackle repairs now and make sure your house is set up to stand out. Because you don’t want to be caught scrambling right before the spring rush. Or, running out of time to do the work your house really needs. 

The key is focusing on updates that actually matter. And that’s exactly where return-on-investment (ROI) data comes in handy.

Which Projects Tend to Pay Off?

Every year, Zonda looks at which home improvements deliver the most bang for the buck when you go to sell the home. And the results can be a little surprising.

The green in the chart below shows the updates where sellers have the biggest potential to add value based on that research:

While there's a wide range of projects represented in this data, the cool part is, some of the top winners aren’t big to-do's. They’re just swapping out doors.

Small Updates, Big Visual Impact

This goes to show little projects can have a big impact. So, you don’t have to spend a fortune. And you don’t need to tackle everything on this list. But in today’s market, doing nothing can work against you.

Now that buyers have more homes to choose from, a lot of them are going to opt for what’s move-in ready.

The best advice? Focus on what your house needs, whether it’s listed here or not – like the repairs you’ve been putting off. A front door or shutters in need of a little TLC. Piles of leaves in the yard. Scuffed up paint where your kids play inside. Those details matter too.

Mallory Slesser, Interior designer and Home Stager, explains it to the National Association of Realtors (NAR) this way:

“If you’re looking for affordable updates that pack a punch, dollar for dollar, I would say painting; changing out light fixtures; changing out hardware; maybe new draperies or window treatments. Those are all cost-effective ways to make a big statement. It really changes the space.”

These seemingly small things help buyers focus on the home itself – not the work they think they’ll have to do after moving in. And that’s paying off for other sellers. Buyers are often willing to spend more on homes that feel well cared for, updated, and move-in ready.

This Chart Is a Starting Point, Not a Strategy

Here’s the important thing to remember. National data like this is a guideline. Buyer preferences are going to vary by location, price point, and even neighborhood. That means a project that boosts value in one area might be unnecessary (or even overkill) in yours.

That’s why the first step should always be to talk with a local real estate professional before you start.

An experienced agent can help you answer questions like:

Which updates do buyers in your market expect?

• What can you skip without hurting your sale?
• Where will a small investment make the biggest difference?

Is it better to update, or sell as-is?

That guidance helps you avoid over-improving and under-preparing.

Bottom Line

Spring success doesn’t come from last-minute fixes or unnecessary renovations. It comes from being thoughtful, prepared, and focusing on the updates that actually matter to buyers in your market. A few well-chosen improvements can make a meaningful difference in how your home shows and how it sells.

If the right updates feel out of reach upfront, ask us about our Compass Concierge program. Qualified sellers can make improvements now and pay for them at closing with no interest.

If you’re thinking about listing this spring and aren’t sure where to put your time or money, we’re happy to help you sort it out. A short conversation now can save you stress later and help your home stand out when it matters most.

Individual Market Analysis for Eastside Cities (Live Statistics):

Sammamish:

Redmond:

Bellevue:

Mercer Island:

Kirkland:

 Buyers:

• Be Prepared to Move Decisively
  Inventory remains limited in many Eastside neighborhoods, and well-priced homes still attract immediate attention. Preparation allows buyers to act confidently without feeling rushed.
• Present a Strong, Clean Offer
  A fully vetted pre-approval is essential. In competitive areas like Bellevue and Redmond, strong financing terms, clean contingencies, and flexibility often matter as much as price.
• Focus on True Buying Power, Not Just the List Price
  With mortgage rates playing a larger role in affordability, successful buyers are looking beyond headline pricing and making decisions based on what is sustainable and comfortable long term.

Start Your Home Search Here

Sellers: Price Right. Prep Smart. Win Big.

Yes, inventory is up—but so are buyer expectations. The homes that sell fastest and highest are the ones that shine.

• Price With Purpose
  Inventory has increased, but buyer expectations have risen with it. Homes that are priced correctly from the start continue to attract strong interest and better outcomes.
• Prep Smart to Stand Out
  Strategic updates, thoughtful staging, and professional presentation still matter. Buyers are selective, and the homes that show the best create the most leverage.
• Capitalize on Serious Demand
  Motivated buyers are still active, especially in markets like Issaquah, Kirkland, and North Bend. When a home shows well and is positioned properly, momentum builds quickly.
• We Handle the Details
  From preparation and positioning to marketing and negotiations, we manage the process end to end so you can focus on what comes next.

Let’s Talk About Your Game Plan → www.shaneandanne.com/contact

Our Listing Process

With Shane & Anne, our mission is to prioritize our clients in every aspect of the real estate journey. We are committed to providing exceptional service and expertise in the luxury real estate market. Guided by our core values, we strive to build lasting relationships based on trust and mutual respect.

Our Core Values:

• Loyalty: We are unwavering in our commitment to our clients, always putting their needs and interests first.
• Honesty: We operate with the highest level of integrity, providing truthful and transparent communication at every step.
• Confidentiality: We respect our clients' privacy and handle all transactions with the utmost discretion.

We are committed to staying ahead of market trends and continuously enhancing our skills and knowledge to deliver unparalleled results. Our goal is to make the real estate experience as smooth and rewarding as possible, ultimately helping our clients achieve their real estate dreams.