This article is based on insights from Jon Salas, a Property Advisor and real estate expert at Revive Real Estate, who shared top national trends for home upgrades in 2025. I’ve made a few adjustments to focus on our local market, and I hope you find this information helpful in planning impactful renovations for presale!”
What’s the one home upgrade that will make your property irresistible to buyers in 2025? You’re not wrong if you’re thinking curb appeal, kitchens, or bathrooms, but there’s more to the story. Buyers are increasingly conscious of factors like sustainability, functionality, and smart technology. As the real estate market evolves, so do buyer expectations – and the upgrades that deliver the best return on investment (ROI) shift alongside them.
Here are the top five pre-sale renovations for 2025 that will maximize a home’s appeal and boost its value.
1. Curb appeal still reigns, but greener is better
Curb appeal continues to be the No. 1 strategic home improvement for a presale renovation. First impressions matter; the moment potential buyers drive up to your property is your best chance to capture their interest. However, in 2025, it’s not just about manicured lawns and fresh paint anymore.
Today’s buyers are more environmentally conscious, and that’s being reflected in landscaping trends. Even in Texas drought-resistant greenscapes are replacing the sprawling, water-thirsty lawns of yesteryear. Think native plants and other low-maintenance, eco-friendly options like xeriscaping, which requires little or no irrigation.
In addition, simple enhancements like replacing aging exterior light fixtures, painting the front door, or adding potted plants are still cost-effective ways to create an inviting entrance.
2. Kitchens:
The kitchen carries significant weight in pre-sale renovations, and investment here will likely pay off. Smart appliances also are becoming more popular, particularly in mid-range and high-end homes. Features like smart refrigerators, ovens that can be controlled via phone apps, and even smart faucets with leak detection are attracting tech-savvy buyers who value convenience and energy efficiency.
In luxury homes, secondary or “prep kitchens” are becoming an attractive addition. These smaller, functional spaces are designed for serious cooking and food preparation, leaving the central kitchen pristine for entertaining.
3. Color schemes are changing: moving from cold to cozy
The popularity of gray hues and bright white interiors, which have dominated design trends over the past decade, is shifting toward organic materials and natural hues. Oak cabinets, lighter woods like blonde and light brown tones, and natural stone are becoming the go-to choices for kitchens and flooring.
Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring continues to be a top choice for its durability and affordability, but the colors are evolving. Grays are out, and warm, earthy tones are in. This shift towards a more natural, organic aesthetic reflects a broader trend of bringing the outdoors in, creating calm, warm, and welcoming spaces.
Updating flooring to reflect these trends can have a huge impact on presale renovations. Buyers want a home that feels modern and livable but not cold. Swapping out older, mismatched flooring with consistent, natural finishes throughout the home can instantly update its look and appeal to a broad range of buyers.
4. Smart technology can help a listing standout:
In 2025, smart home technology will become a crucial feature many home buyers expect homes to feature. That’s because buyers are looking for homes that make their lives easier and more efficient, and innovative tech can be a major part of that equation.
Smart thermostats like the Nest, Ecobee or Honeywell, which allow homeowners to control the climate from their phones, are a relatively small investment that can make a big impression. Similarly, smart lighting systems with motion sensors and voice control continue to gain popularity. Not only do these technologies provide convenience, but they also enhance energy efficiency – an attractive selling point to environmentally conscious buyers.
5. Bathrooms: simple, modern, and cost-effective updates
Bathrooms are one of the most personal spaces in a home, and while major overhauls aren’t always necessary, certain upgrades can make a significant impact without breaking the bank. For 2025, the focus is on investing in practical cosmetic improvements, particularly in the primary bathroom.
Modern vanities, rainfall showerheads, and updated lighting fixtures can transform a dated bathroom into a spa-like retreat. While a complete remodel isn’t always necessary, making targeted upgrades to flooring and fixtures can create a fresh, clean look that appeals to buyers.
Freestanding tubs remain a popular choice in primary bathrooms, particularly in luxury homes, but for secondary bathrooms, simple updates like new tile or updated faucets can go a long way. As with kitchens, energy efficiency is pushing a trend towards low-flow showerheads and high-efficiency toilets as part of every bathroom renovation.
Other improvements: the little things still matter, as accessories can seal the deal
Often overlooked, accessories and more minor upgrades can have an outsized impact on the overall impression of a home. In 2025, these finishing touches are as important as ever, and they can be the difference between a modern home and an outdated one.
Think about doorknobs, light switches, faucets, and other hardware. Replacing worn-out or dated fixtures with sleek, modern alternatives can instantly refresh a room without requiring a complete renovation. Brushed nickel, matte black, or even gold finishes are popular choices, depending on the style of the home.
Don’t underestimate the power of lighting, either. Buyers notice details like well-placed sconces or pendant lights that create a warm, inviting atmosphere. While it may not be as exciting as a new kitchen, functional updates like LED lighting and smart dimmers can help boost a home’s energy efficiency – another small but meaningful upgrade that buyers appreciate.
Jerry Welch, Realtor
Jerry Welch is a full-time, professional REALTOR® with over 17 years in real estate and specializes in helping seniors’ transition. He holds an SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist) designation, which reflects his extensive education on topics such as tax laws, probate, estate planning, and equity conversion strategies. He offers relevant information on current market trends as well as being a valuable resource regarding real estate transactions. He was one of the founding members and is a past chair of the Rockwall Chamber SSA (Senior Services Alliance) Program. (972) 800 3915 https://jerrywelch.ebby.com/
