According to December 2024 ANAROCK report, around 4.6 lakh homes were sold in top 7 cities of India. As per Magic bricks figures, resale properties made up 49/1% of the total listings in the 4th quarter of 2024. It clearly shows there is a huge market for resale of properties and you should consider upgrades to attract more buyers and get a good price for your property
Why Invest in home when you are selling it?
When it’s time to sell your home, every detail counts — from the first impression at the gate to the last corner of the kitchen. Indian buyers today are more discerning than ever. They browse listings online, compare amenities, and visit multiple properties before making a decision. In such a competitive market, the right home upgrades can significantly increase both your property’s value and its appeal — often giving you a Return on Investment (ROI) far higher than you’d expect.
Here’s a look at the most impactful home upgrades that offer the best ROI before you sell your home
1. Kitchen Revamp: A High-ROI Essential
In Indian homes, the kitchen is more than a cooking space — it’s the heart of the household. Buyers often judge an entire home by how well the kitchen is designed and maintained.
ROI potential: 60–80%
What to upgrade:
- Replace old countertops with granite, quartz, or vitrified tiles.
- Upgrade to modular kitchen fittings with soft-close drawers.
- Add energy-efficient appliances — even if you plan to take them later, they elevate the home’s image.
- Repaint or laminate kitchen cabinets for a fresh, modern look.
Even a mid-range remodel can make your home look newer and better cared for, which directly impacts its resale value.
2. Bathroom Modernisation: Small Space, Big Impact
Bathrooms are one of the first areas buyers inspect closely. A dated or poorly maintained bathroom can turn away an otherwise interested buyer.
ROI potential: 50–70%
Upgrades to consider:
- Replace leaky taps, worn-out tiles, and stained washbasins.
- Add geyser connections, exhaust fans, and LED mirror lighting.
- Switch to modern sanitary fittings — matte black or brushed steel finishes are trending.
- Install anti-skid floor tiles for safety and style.
A clean, fresh-smelling, well-lit bathroom gives buyers a sense of comfort — and subtly signals that the rest of the home is equally well maintained.
3. Fresh Paint: The Simplest, Smartest Upgrade
Never underestimate the power of a new coat of paint. It’s one of the easiest ways to make a property look brand new without heavy spending.
ROI potential: 70–100%
Tips:
- Choose neutral shades like off-white, beige, or light grey — they make spaces look larger and appeal to most buyers.
- Use washable paints for high-traffic areas like hallways or children’s rooms.
- Repaint the main door and grills — they’re often the first thing buyers notice.
In India’s dusty environment, faded or peeling paint quickly makes a home look old. Fresh paint can instantly uplift it, both in photos and in-person visits.
4. Lighting and Electrical Upgrades: Bright Ideas Pay Off
Good lighting is both aesthetic and functional — it can completely change the way a home feels.
ROI potential: 60–75%
Invest in:
- LED lighting — energy-efficient, low-maintenance, and modern.
- Ambient and task lighting in living and kitchen areas.
- Replace old switchboards with modular electrical fittings.
- Add extra sockets for the gadget-driven lifestyle of today’s buyers.
In urban markets like Mumbai, Pune, or Bengaluru, young buyers especially look for homes that feel bright and well-wired.
5. Balcony & Outdoor Space: Your Value-Boosting Bonus
Balconies, terraces, and verandas have become hot selling points post-COVID, as buyers crave open spaces within their homes.
ROI potential: 50–80%
Upgrade ideas:
- Add floor decking tiles or synthetic grass for aesthetics.
- Install simple railing planters and ambient lighting.
- Ensure waterproofing and proper drainage — small leaks can scare off buyers.
A well-designed outdoor corner can make your flat feel more spacious and liveable — a huge plus in Indian metros where space is limited.
6. Flooring Upgrades: The Foundation of First Impressions
Old or stained flooring is a major deal-breaker. Fortunately, modern options allow stylish upgrades without full demolition.
ROI potential: 50–70%
Options to explore:
- Vinyl planks or laminated wood tiles for a warm, premium look.
- Vitrified tiles for a durable, easy-to-clean finish.
- In premium homes, Italian marble polishing can restore shine without replacement.
A small investment in flooring can change the entire feel of your interiors, making them appear newer and more luxurious.
7. Smart & Energy-Efficient Features: Appeal to the New-Age Buyer
Today’s homebuyers, especially millennial, value convenience, technology, and sustainability. Adding even a few smart elements can make your home stand out.
ROI potential: 60–85%
Consider:
- Smart doorbells, video security, or Wi-Fi-enabled lighting.
- Solar panels (if feasible) for independent homes.
- Energy-efficient air-conditioners and fans.
Even minor smart upgrades make buyers perceive the property as “future-ready,” helping you justify a higher asking price.
Final Thoughts: Upgrade Smart, Not Excessive
When preparing your home for sale, remember that not every renovation guarantees higher value. Focus on cosmetic and functional upgrades that improve the buyer’s first impression without overcapitalizing.
Start with:
- Areas that directly impact visual appeal (paint, lighting, cleanliness).
- Spaces that influence daily comfort (kitchen, bathroom).
- Add-ons that feel aspirational (balcony décor, smart features).
In India’s evolving real estate market, where buyers are digitally savvy and emotionally driven, homes that feel “move-in ready” sell faster — and often fetch a premium of 10–15% over renovated ones.
The goal isn’t just to make your property look good — it’s to help potential buyers see they living there.
