Key takeaways
- Match comp finish quality exactly.
- Update kitchen + baths first.
- Curb appeal matters more than expected.
- Skip pools, additions, custom features.
- Stay under 4 months total.
Core concepts
Finish tiers
Builder grade, mid, high — match comps.
Highest ROI areas
Kitchen, bath, curb appeal.
Avoid
Pools, additions, structural unless required.
Step-by-step framework
- 1Tour 3 active comps.
- 2Match finish tier.
- 3Skip discretionary scope.
- 4Budget kitchen + bath highest.
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Common mistakes to avoid
- Granite in builder-grade neighborhood.
- Custom features.
- Skipping curb appeal.
Frequently asked questions
Granite or quartz?
Match comps.
Permits required?
Yes for plumbing/electrical.
DIY parts?
Paint OK; nothing else.
Stage furniture?
Yes — recovers 2–3x cost.
Action checklist
- ☐Comps toured.
- ☐Finish tier matched.
- ☐Kitchen/bath prioritized.
- ☐Staging budget.
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