If your home isn’t move-in ready, you might be leaving money on the table.
A 2025 Zillow report revealed something every DMV-area home seller should know: buyers pay a 4% premium for move-in-ready homes, while homes needing repairs sell for up to 7% less—the most significant discount in three years.
So what does this mean for you if you’re thinking about selling?
Let’s break it down.
The Cost of “As-Is” Just Got More Expensive
Many sellers assume they’ll save time and stress by listing their home “as-is”—but that can backfire in 2025’s market.
- Buyers today are juggling high mortgage rates and inflationary pressures.
- They don’t want to take on renovation costs after closing.
- Homes that look “dated” or need repairs signal risk, so they skip the showing or lowball the offer.
Bottom line: The move-in-ready look isn’t just nice to have—it’s what sells homes faster and at higher prices.
What Counts as “Move-In Ready” in Today’s Market?
You don’t need to tear your home down to the studs. But buyers are prioritizing:
- Fresh paint and modern lighting
- Updated kitchen finishes and appliances
- Clean, modern bathrooms
- Refinished floors or new carpeting
- Functional layouts (think open spaces)
- No visible repairs or worn surfaces
Even basic cosmetic updates go a long way.
DMV Market Reality: High Expectations, Competitive Listings
In Northern Virginia, Maryland, and DC neighborhoods, buyers expect homes to be prepped and polished. Listings with upgraded features—especially in kitchens and bathrooms—command stronger offers and shorter days on the market.
Real estate agents know this, which is why many now recommend pre-listing renovations as part of a go-to-market plan.
Renovate Now, Pay Later: The MaxHousePrice Advantage
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to shell out cash before selling.
At MaxHousePrice, we handle the entire renovation process—from planning to execution—and cover 100% of the cost upfront. You don’t pay a dime until the home sells.
We help you:
✔ Identify the right updates for your home and market
✔ Manage licensed contractors and materials
✔ Maximize buyer appeal and sales price
Whether it’s a quick refresh or a full kitchen and bath update, we help DMV homeowners sell smarter, not just faster.
Renovate Now, Pay Later: The MaxHousePrice Advantage
Here’s the good news: you don’t have to shell out cash before selling.
At MaxHousePrice, we handle the entire renovation process—from planning to execution—and cover 100% of the cost upfront. That means you pay nothing until closing—no loans, no interest, no hidden fees.
This unique pay-at-closing model removes financial stress and empowers you to focus on getting the best possible offer for your home.
We help you:
✔ Identify the right updates for your home and market
✔ Manage licensed contractors and materials
✔ Maximize buyer appeal and sales price
✔ Avoid out-of-pocket expenses until the sale is complete
Whether it’s a quick refresh, a full kitchen and bath upgrade, or a complete pre-listing renovation, MaxHousePrice helps DMV homeowners sell smarter, not just faster, with zero upfront cost.
Ready to Sell for More?
If you plan to list your home in 2025, the first step isn’t calling a photographer—it’s calling a renovation partner who knows what sells.Schedule a free consultation.
Let’s get your home move-in ready—and maximize your sale price.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation estimate and let’s talk about how we can turn your home into a top-dollar listing