How to Do Smart Renovations to Increase Your House Value in Toronto

Why Renovating Before Selling Matters

In Toronto’s competitive real estate market, first impressions matter more than ever. Buyers often decide within minutes whether a home “feels right.” Strategic renovations not only make your property more appealing but can also significantly increase its resale value.

However, not all upgrades are created equal. The key is knowing which renovations give the best return on investment (ROI) and how to plan them efficiently.

As a local Toronto REALTOR®, Georgi Tataryan works with clients to design smart renovation strategies that maximize value before a property hits the market.

Renovations That Pay Off in Toronto

1. Kitchen Refresh

The kitchen is the heart of the home — and one of the top areas buyers focus on. A dated kitchen can turn buyers away, while a modern one can drive offers higher.

Smart upgrades include:

• Replacing outdated countertops with quartz or granite.

• Refreshing cabinets with new hardware or a coat of paint.

• Installing modern, energy-efficient appliances.

• Updating lighting fixtures for a brighter, more open feel.

👉 Pro tip: Full kitchen overhauls can be costly. Small, high-impact updates often provide a better ROI for sellers.

2. Bathroom Improvements

Bathrooms are another high-value renovation area. Buyers love clean, modern spaces.

Ideas to add value:

• Swap old vanities for sleek, contemporary ones.

• Update faucets, showerheads, and light fixtures.

• Add fresh tiles or re-grout existing ones.

• Consider double sinks in master bathrooms for added appeal.

A modest bathroom refresh can make your home feel new again without overspending.

3. Flooring Upgrades

Worn or outdated flooring can make a home feel tired. Modern buyers prefer hardwood or high-quality laminate over wall-to-wall carpet.

Upgrade suggestions:

• Install hardwood or engineered wood in main living areas.

• Use durable laminate or vinyl in basements.

• Add ceramic or porcelain tiles in bathrooms and kitchens.

Fresh floors instantly transform the look of a home and photograph beautifully for online listings.

4. Curb Appeal & First Impressions

Your home’s exterior is the first thing buyers see. Boosting curb appeal creates excitement before they even step inside.

Smart exterior upgrades:

• Repaint or replace the front door.

• Add low-maintenance landscaping (shrubs, flowers, mulch).

• Repair cracked driveways or walkways.

• Install outdoor lighting for safety and style.

Even small changes here can have a big psychological impact on buyers.

5. Fresh Paint Throughout

A new coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can make. Stick with neutral tones like soft grays, whites, and beige. They create a blank canvas for buyers and make spaces feel brighter and larger.

Bonus: Neutral walls also help your listing photos stand out online.

6. Energy-Efficient Updates

Today’s buyers are more eco-conscious and love energy savings. Consider:

• Upgrading to energy-efficient windows.

• Installing smart thermostats.

• Adding better insulation.

These improvements can be a selling feature while lowering utility bills in the meantime.

7. Basement Potential

Basements in Toronto are valuable — whether as extra living space, in-law suites, or rental units. A finished basement adds usable square footage, which buyers see as extra value.

Options include:

• Open-concept family room

• Home office space

• Legal basement apartment (where zoning allows)

Even a partially finished basement with fresh flooring and drywall can make a big difference.

Renovations to Avoid

Not every upgrade pays off. Be cautious with:

• Overly personalized designs (bright wall colors, niche themes).

• Luxury extras that don’t match neighborhood values (e.g., $100,000 pool in an entry-level area).

• DIY jobs that lack professional polish — they may raise concerns during inspections.

The goal is to appeal to the widest pool of buyers without overspending.

Budgeting for Renovations

Before diving in, it’s important to know how much to invest. A general rule:

• Spend no more than 5–10% of your home’s value on renovations if you’re planning to sell soon.

For example, on an $800,000 Toronto home, a $40,000 renovation budget can significantly increase value while avoiding overcapitalization.

As part of his service, Georgi Tataryan helps clients review costs vs. potential ROI to ensure every dollar spent translates to higher offers.

Timing Your Renovations

Timing matters in real estate. Ideally, renovations should be completed a few weeks before listing. This allows time for:

• Final touch-ups and staging.

• Professional photography and marketing.

• Buyers to see your home in “move-in ready” condition.

The Role of Staging After Renovations

Renovations attract buyers, but staging seals the deal. Pairing fresh updates with professional staging helps highlight your home’s best features. Staged homes consistently sell faster and for more money in Toronto’s market.

Final Thoughts

Renovating before selling doesn’t have to mean gutting your entire home. Smart, targeted improvements — kitchens, bathrooms, paint, floors, and curb appeal — deliver the best ROI. Energy efficiency and basement updates add long-term value as well.

If you’re unsure where to start, reach out. I’m Georgi Tataryan, and I’m here to help you create a renovation plan tailored to your home, your budget, and Toronto’s market trends. Whether you’re selling a house or condo, my goal is to help you maximize value before listing .