Focus on the basics first. Fix what is broken. Fresh paint in neutral tones adds value. Clean up the yard and improve curb appeal. A professional cleaning matters more than people expect.

**2026-specific context:** With inventory at decade highs (**highest January inventory since 2015**), buyers are comparing your home against dozens of alternatives . Small deficiencies that buyers might have overlooked in 2021 are now deal-breakers. Kitchen and bathroom updates can pay off — but a full renovation rarely returns dollar-for-dollar when prices are flat or declining. Avoid over-improving for your neighbourhood. In a market where the benchmark single-family home is down 2.5% year-over-year, you can’t price your way out of a bad renovation decision .

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Thinking of selling? Work with Dale Sheppard to sell your home.