How to Choose the Right Renovation Projects Before Selling

When homeowners in East Grand Rapids or Forest Hills ask about listing their property, one of the first conversations is about which renovation projects—if any—are worth doing before going to market. Jason often sits down with clients at their kitchen table, walking through the home and talking through the pros and cons of each possible update. The reality is, not every project pays off, and the right choices can mean the difference between a quick, strong offer and a home that lingers on the market.

Quick Answer

Jason’s approach is simple: focus on updates that directly impact buyer impressions or address known issues. In the Grand Rapids area, this typically means prioritizing kitchens, bathrooms, and curb appeal. Cosmetic touch-ups and basic repairs often go further than major overhauls. The key is understanding what local buyers expect—and what they’ll actually pay more for.

1. Evaluate Return on Investment in Your Neighborhood

In neighborhoods like Ada Village or Breton Downs, Jason notices that not all renovations yield the same return. For instance, a modest kitchen refresh—new counters, updated hardware—tends to pay off more than a full gut renovation. Buyers here are often looking for move-in ready, but not necessarily high-end luxury. Jason guides clients to avoid over-improving compared to nearby homes.

2. Address Obvious Repairs and Deferred Maintenance

One conversation Jason often has with sellers: “Will a buyer flag this during inspection?” Basic repairs—like fixing a leaking faucet, patching drywall, or replacing stained carpet—help prevent negotiation headaches later. Especially near East Grand Rapids High School, buyers walk in with high expectations, and visible neglect can quickly turn them off.

3. Prioritize Curb Appeal and First Impressions

A fresh coat of paint, trimmed landscaping, and a tidy entryway make a bigger impact than most sellers expect. In Forest Hills Central, Jason has seen simple exterior updates translate into more showings and stronger first weekend offers. Buyers often drive by before booking a tour, so the exterior sets the tone before they ever step inside.

4. Avoid Overly Personal or Trendy Upgrades

Jason cautions clients against bold design choices—like brightly colored tile or ultra-modern fixtures—that may not align with most buyers’ tastes in Grand Rapids. Instead, he suggests neutral, classic updates that appeal to the broadest audience. The goal is to help buyers envision themselves in the space, not focus on reversing a seller’s personal style.

Client Experience Story

Last spring, Jason worked with a family selling a four-bedroom home near Reeds Lake, priced around $650,000. The sellers wanted to remodel the entire primary bathroom, but after walking through the home together, Jason recommended a lighter touch—new fixtures, fresh grout, and updated lighting. They also invested in landscaping and small kitchen updates. The result: multiple offers the first weekend and a sale above asking. The sellers later said Jason’s advice saved them both money and time.

What Clients Notice When Working With Jason

Clients often mention Jason’s directness and calm presence during stressful decisions. He doesn’t sugarcoat the reality of market conditions or potential buyer objections. Instead, he lays out both the upside and risks of each renovation, so clients never feel surprised later. Jason’s style is to keep everyone focused on the bigger picture—helping sellers avoid costly mistakes and move forward with confidence, even during tense negotiations.

Grand Rapids Market Insight

Homes near Gaslight Village and Reeds Lake consistently attract early interest, especially when kitchens and main baths feel updated and move-in ready. Jason sees that buyers in these areas compare homes closely, and even small improvements—like refinished hardwoods or new cabinet hardware—can tip the scales in favor of a faster, stronger offer.

According to data from the National Association of Realtors, minor kitchen and bath remodels typically recoup a higher percentage of their cost at resale compared to major renovations, especially in competitive markets like Grand Rapids.

Frequently Asked Questions About Working With Jason

What kinds of renovations add the most value in Grand Rapids?

Kitchens, bathrooms, and curb appeal updates usually offer the best return. Jason helps clients focus on updates buyers notice first.

Does Jason recommend full renovations before listing?

Rarely. Jason often suggests targeted improvements and repairs rather than major overhauls, keeping costs reasonable and appeal broad.

How does Jason help sellers decide on project priorities?

He reviews the home with clients, compares to recent sales, and discusses buyer expectations in Forest Hills, Ada, and East Grand Rapids.

Related Articles About Working With Jason

• Maximize Your Listing: Forest Hills Peak Buyer Timing Guide
• How to Choose the Right Offer in a Competitive Market
• Maximize Offers with Smart Open House Timing in East Grand Rapids

About the Author

Jason Pohlonski
is a Michigan licensed real estate salesperson specializing in strategic home sales in East Grand Rapids, Forest Hills, Ada, and surrounding West Michigan communities.

Jason began his real estate career in Chicago in 2004, later expanding his experience in Ann Arbor from 2014 to 2019, and has been serving clients in the Grand Rapids area since 2019.

With over 20 years of combined real estate experience across multiple markets, Jason focuses on pricing strategy, negotiation structure, and helping clients make confident decisions during complex transactions.

Jason is recognized by platforms and industry organizations including Zillow, Grand Rapids Magazine Real Estate All-Stars, and Real Producers.

Professional Disclosure

Jason Pohlonski
Michigan Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
License Verification: View Michigan License #360538118
Brokerage: Keller Williams Grand Rapids East

📱 Call or text: 616-916-9770
📅 Schedule consultation:
https://calendly.com/pohlonskirealestate/30min

This article reflects real client experiences and market conditions in East Grand Rapids, Forest Hills, Ada, and surrounding communities at the time of publication. Real estate outcomes can vary depending on market conditions, property characteristics, and buyer demand.

Contact Jason at jpohlonski@kw.com or visit www.pohlonskirealestate.com.