If you’re planning to sell your home this spring in the Greater Palm Springs Area, now is the time to start preparing, well before the seasonal rush hits.
Today’s buyers have more choices than they did just a few years ago, which means homes need to stand out. Waiting until the last minute to tackle repairs or updates can leave you scrambling or worse, missing opportunities to make a strong first impression.
The good news? You don’t need a full renovation to boost your home’s value. The key is focusing on updates that actually deliver a return on investment (ROI).
Which Home Improvements Tend to Pay Off?
Each year, Zonda analyzes which home improvement projects provide the best return when it’s time to sell. Their findings consistently show that some of the highest-ROI updates are surprisingly simple.
Rather than major remodels, several of the top-performing projects focus on visual impact and curb appeal, such as:
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Replacing or refreshing exterior doors
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Improving entryways and first impressions
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Addressing visible wear and deferred maintenance
These updates help buyers feel confident that a home has been well cared for something that matters even more in competitive desert markets like Palm Desert, La Quinta, Rancho Mirage, and Palm Springs.
Small Updates, Big Impact in Today’s Market
One of the biggest takeaways from ROI data is that small projects can make a big difference.
In today’s market, many buyers are prioritizing move-in ready homes. When given multiple options, they’re more likely to choose the property that feels updated, clean, and maintained, rather than one that looks like a to-do list.
That means it’s worth addressing:
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Worn or faded front doors
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Peeling paint or scuffed walls
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Outdated light fixtures or hardware
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Overgrown landscaping or neglected yards
These details may seem minor, but buyers notice them immediately and they influence perceived value.
What Designers and Stagers Recommend
According to Mallory Slesser, interior designer and home stager, speaking with the National Association of Realtors, cost-effective updates can completely change how a home feels:
“If you’re looking for affordable updates that pack a punch, dollar for dollar, I would say painting; changing out light fixtures; changing out hardware; maybe new draperies or window treatments. Those are all cost-effective ways to make a big statement. It really changes the space.”
These improvements help buyers focus on the home—not the work they think they’ll need to do after closing. And buyers are often willing to pay more for homes that feel well-maintained and thoughtfully updated.
Why National Data Is a Starting Point ... Not a Strategy
ROI charts and national studies are helpful, but they’re only a guide.
Buyer expectations vary widely depending on:
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Location
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Price point
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Neighborhood
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Type of home (primary residence vs. second home)
What adds value in one market may be unnecessary, or even excessive, in another. That’s especially true in the diverse desert market, where buyer profiles range from full-time residents to seasonal and investment buyers.
Why Local Guidance Matters Before You Update
Before starting any projects, it’s smart to talk with a local real estate professional who understands your specific market.
A knowledgeable agent can help you determine:
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Which updates buyers in your area expect
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What you can skip without hurting your sale price
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Where small investments make the biggest impact
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Whether it’s better to update or sell as-is
This approach helps you avoid over-improving while still positioning your home to stand out.
Bottom Line: Focus on Smart, Strategic Updates
If you’re selling this spring, you still have time to make meaningful improvements, without taking on a full remodel.
The right updates can help your home show better, attract stronger offers, and sell with less friction.
At Desert Cities Home, we help sellers identify which improvements make sense for their home, their timeline, and their local market.
If you’re unsure where to start, a quick conversation can help you prioritize the updates that will deliver the biggest return.
What’s one upgrade you’ve been considering and wondering if it’s truly worth it?
