Homeowners preparing to sell may be investing in the wrong improvements, according to new research from estate agency group LRG.
Despite the widespread belief that buyers favour turnkey-ready homes, only 11% of purchasers want a property that requires no work, suggesting many sellers may be over-prioritising costly upgrades.
LRG’s autumn 2025 sales survey of 317 buyers and sellers shows that almost 90% of buyers are willing to undertake some form of improvement.
A third are happy with homes that need only light cosmetic work, while more than a quarter would take on full redecoration or carpet replacement. Others are prepared to go further, with 13% open to kitchen or bathroom replacements and 15% willing to tackle full renovations.
CHANGING PREFERENCES
The findings indicate that presenting a pristine, neutralised home may not always align with the preferences of the majority of buyers.
While updated kitchens and bathrooms remain influential – with more than three-quarters of buyers saying modern facilities would encourage an offer – cleanliness and general maintenance rank far higher than kerb appeal or pre-approved planning permission.
Preferences around interior style also appears more varied than commonly assumed. Only 27.7% of buyers want a ‘blank canvas’, while almost 15% prefer stylish or distinctive décor, suggesting sellers may not need to strip back personality when preparing a home for market.
RIGHT ADVICE IS VITAL
Neil Louth (main picture, inset), Chief Executive Officer for The Acorn Group, part of LRG, says: “We’re often asked by sellers how much they should invest in improvements before listing.
“The data tells us that 33% of buyers are content with properties needing just a dash of paint, while 28% will happily tackle full redecoration and carpet replacement.”
“Sometimes the investment pays off, sometimes it doesn’t.”
He adds: “Sometimes the investment pays off, sometimes it doesn’t – and providing clients the right advice to achieve maximum value is vital.
“A mistake we often see is sellers assuming everyone wants what they do. Some buyers have the time and enthusiasm for a project, while others are looking for somewhere they can simply move into and enjoy.
“The key is having an honest conversation with your agent about which buyer segment your property naturally appeals to and preparing it accordingly.”
