What Makes a Home “Move-In Ready” in Today’s Market?

With budgets already stretched thin along with higher interest rates, today’s buyers are more selective than ever regarding homes they’re willing to purchase. They don’t want to get stuck with a home they’ll need to sink even more money into after closing. In fact, according to a recent report from Zillow, buyers are willing to pay up to 4% more (an average of $13,000 for the average American home) for a move-in-ready listing that doesn’t need renovations or repairs. 

But a move-in-ready home doesn’t require sellers to invest in large remodeling projects. It just means offering buyers a home they can occupy immediately upon closing, with no major systems breaking down, expensive flaws to fix, or aesthetic changes needed to bring the home into the current decade.  

If you plan to move this year, making some affordable home updates before selling can improve your sale price and reduce time on the market. And if you’re buying soon, ask your realtor to see listings that are turnkey, so you can save on unexpected expenses.

Sellers, here’s what your home will need to satisfy today’s buyers looking for move-in-ready homes.

Electrical System. Any electrical wiring needs to be up to code, with GFCI outlets in appropriate places and functional outlets and switches throughout the home. If the house has an electrical panel that’s less than 200-amp, consider upgrading it so it can handle future home improvements such as a new HVAC system or energy-efficient upgrades. 

HVAC System. The water heater, furnace, and air conditioner should be in good working order. If you notice the shower water turns cold quickly or hear any strange sounds when the furnace kicks on, it’s worth getting it looked at and fixing whatever is wrong. And consider replacing your HVAC system if it’s nearing the end of its life, as a new system has been shown to increase home value by 5-7%. 

Plumbing. Buying a move-in-ready home means no toilets or faucets should be leaking on moving day. To impress potential buyers, sellers could also go the extra mile to have a plumbing inspection, which can identify any underground leaks. 

Roof and Siding. If the roof is in good shape, but over 15 years old, it’s a good idea to show buyers a recent inspection showing that there’s no damage. If it’s nearing the end of its life, it may be a good idea to replace it before selling. The same goes for siding and soffits.

Anything dangerous or broken will need to be fixed before listing. This includes cracked windows, damaged floorboards, loose railings, and any broken fixtures like hinges and handles. Replacing window seals and loose weather stripping also shows the home has been well-maintained.

A home where someone smoked, that has had flooding in the basement, or has foul pet odors throughout, will be difficult to sell to a move-in-ready buyer. It’s crucial to take every measure to eliminate odors, including washing and painting walls, replacing carpets, replacing light bulbs, and in some cases, hiring an odor removal company.

Does your home have a smart thermostat? If not, it’s an inexpensive update worth making before selling. Modern home buyers, especially tech-savvy millennials, are impressed by modern touches that make life easier and offer energy efficiency. Smart locks, doorbell cameras, and motion-sensitive lighting are also easy, affordable things that can make a difference to move-in-ready buyers.

Although it’s possible to sell a home without a refrigerator or other appliances, buyers prefer to have everything needed for a functional kitchen upon moving in. If your fridge or microwave is on the brink, it’s best to have it repaired or replace it. 

Again, a full remodel is not necessary, especially since a buyer’s tastes might not align with the seller’s. But if your 1950s home hasn’t been touched and still has avocado green countertops and a peach bathtub, buyers looking for turnkey homes will likely turn away. While updates like these are not cheap, the investment will be worth it if it draws buyers willing to pay more.

If you’re a buyer who doesn’t want expensive home projects soon after closing, there are ways to find affordable turnkey homes in your desired city or school district. Lower-priced older homes that are updated can offer just as many perks as newer ones if enough love has been poured into them.

For instance, this home in the desirable Webster Groves school district sold last summer for $225,000. It was built in 1900, but filled with home updates that made it move-in ready:

“Charming, move-in ready ranch in the heart of Webster Groves! This 2-bedroom, 1-bath gem has been thoughtfully updated throughout, featuring beautifully refinished hardwood floors, handmade trim in great room, fresh paint, and several new windows that fill the home with natural light. Main floor laundry hookups! Enjoy cooking in the updated kitchen with new countertops, appliances, and stylish finishes. The bathroom boasts a brand-new vanity and toilet. Step outside to your fenced-in backyard oasis with a new covered deck—perfect for entertaining or relaxing. Major upgrades include a new roof, HVAC system, ceramic tile, some laminate flooring and screen doors. Located in a highly sought-after neighborhood close to parks, shopping, and dining. Don’t miss this turn-key home with modern comfort and classic charm!”

This move-in-ready home in Webster Groves, on the market for $287,000, also boasts lots of updates.

“Step inside to discover complete renovation throughout, including beautiful engineered wood plank flooring, new carpet, stainless steel appliances and granite countertops in the kitchen.  Enjoy gatherings on the new patio, enhanced by a freshly constructed retaining wall that adds both style and functionality.  Electric has been updated, new plumbing, new vinyl windows, new doors, new sump pump.”   

Of course, buyers with higher budgets can also find turnkey homes for more affordable prices than brand-new builds. While a 4-bed, 3-bath, 3,215 square foot new construction home in St. Charles is listed at nearly $700,000, this St. Charles home, built in 199,6 offers the same amount of space for just $440,000. With an updated bathroom, new roof and HVAC system, and new windows, it may be perfect for a large family looking to live near the Katy Trail. 

Most importantly, if you’re looking at buying a move-in-ready home, avoid listings that say “as-is.” This means the buyer isn’t willing to make any improvements to the home’s current condition, and that there will likely be changes you will need to make after the home is yours, possibly even before you can move in.

Our agents at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Select Properties know all about buying and selling in the metro area and can offer plenty of St. Louis real estate tips. Whether you need advice regarding home updates before selling or how to find a great move-in-ready home, we can help. Contact us today to get started.