ImproveSource Blog | Renovation & Capital Planning for Multifamily Properties and Investors

7 Upgrades to Help Your Home Sell Fast — What to DIY vs. Hire Out

Written by Carmen Candlin | Sep 29, 2025 4:20:20 AM

Want to Sell Fast? Here’s What Really Matters

In the Denver metro housing market—where buyers are looking for move-in-ready and energy-efficient homes—some upgrades can help your listing stand out and sell faster. Not all improvements are worth the spend, but the right ones can shorten your time on market and increase final sale price.

In this post, we’ll walk through 7 proven upgrades that help homes sell faster, along with smart tips on when to DIY and when to hire a trusted partner like ImproveSource.

 

Curb Appeal is Still King

DIY: Mow the lawn, edge the walkway, weed flower beds, add mulch, pressure wash siding and pavement.

Hire ImproveSource: Repaint exterior or trim, repair siding or fascia, upgrade porch railings or concrete paths.

 

Replace or Repair Windows

DIY: Clean windows inside and out, re-caulk gaps, replace torn screens.

Hire ImproveSource: Replace cracked or fogged glass, upgrade to energy-efficient or modern windows.

 

Paint the Right Spaces

DIY: Touch up baseboards and scuffs, repaint small rooms if you’re confident.

Hire ImproveSource: Full interior refresh, buyer-appeal color consulting, fast paint jobs in key spaces like kitchens and living rooms.

 

Flooring Matters

DIY: Deep clean carpets, repair small tiles.

Hire ImproveSource: LVP install, room-wide carpet replacement, repairs involving subfloor or leveling.

 

Fix the Basics

DIY:  Tighten cabinet knobs, replace leaky faucets, fix squeaky doors.

Hire ImproveSource: Electrical or plumbing fixes, safety/code compliance, inspection punch lists.

 

Light It Up

DIY:  Replace bulbs with bright LEDs, clean fixtures.

Hire ImproveSource: Swap out outdated fixtures, upgrade outdoor lighting, install recessed or track lighting.

 

Concrete, Siding & Cleanup

DIY: Remove trash and debris, clean up the yard, pressure wash sidewalks.

Hire ImproveSource: Repair cracked concrete, resurface walkways, replace siding or gutters.

 

Need Help Getting Market-Ready?

Selling your home doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Focus on what you can do yourself—and let ImproveSource handle the rest. Our experienced crews can knock out repairs and upgrades quickly, cleanly, and with a sharp eye toward ROI.

💬 Ready for a fast quote or a pre-sale walkthrough? Schedule a call.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

**Q: What upgrades help homes sell the fastest?**

A: Exterior paint, curb appeal, clean floors, modern lighting, and energy-efficient windows can all reduce days on market and support stronger offers.

 

**Q: Should I remodel the kitchen before selling?**

A: Not always. Small cosmetic fixes like cabinet paint or new hardware can be smarter than a full remodel, especially if your home is going to market quickly.

 

**Q: What upgrades matter most in the Denver real estate market?**

A: In Denver, buyers prioritize curb appeal, energy efficiency, and functional outdoor space. Well-maintained exteriors, modern windows, and clean landscaping can make a big difference—especially in a competitive market with shifting interest rates.