Many owners wonder if it’s worth spending on renovation right before selling, or if they should just leave the place “as is” and let the buyer decide. The answer sits somewhere in the middle.
If your flat is in rough shape—peeling paint, obvious damp patches, broken tiles, very old bathrooms—a buyer will mentally subtract a big renovation cost from your asking price. Some may not even bother to consider it after the first impression.
But doing a full, expensive, highly personalised renovation right before selling doesn’t always pay back. Buyers may prefer their own style and might rip out some of your brand-new choices anyway.
A balanced approach works best. Fix anything that looks neglected or risky: leaks, damaged flooring, faulty wiring, broken doors, and very shabby toilets. Then give the place a fresh, neutral paint job and basic cleaning.
This makes your property feel “move-in ready,” even if the buyer later upgrades more. You’re not trying to create their dream home, just a clean, solid base that doesn’t scare them with repair bills on day one.
If the market is hot, minor refresh is enough. If it’s slow, a slightly better-presented flat can stand out without you overspending.