Recent Blog Post
Do you really need to fix up your home before selling in San Jose?
Not always—but small improvements can make a big difference. In San Jose’s competitive market, light prep often leads to faster sales and stronger offers, while major renovations aren’t always necessary.
San Jose buyers—especially in neighborhoods like Willow Glen, Cambrian, Almaden, and Santa Clara—tend to favor homes that feel updated and well cared for. Even affordable improvements can boost your home’s appeal.
Before spending money, focus on updates that consistently deliver value:
- Fresh paint in modern, neutral colors
- Updated lighting fixtures
- Landscaping and curb appeal upgrades
- Carpet replacement or deep cleaning
- Minor kitchen and bath refreshes
Not every fix is necessary. You usually don’t need to:
- Replace cabinets
- Install new countertops
- Fully remodel bathrooms
- Replace all flooring
- Finish major construction projects
Large remodels rarely pay back dollar‑for‑dollar when selling.
Staging highlights your home’s space and flow, helping buyers picture themselves living there. It often results in higher offers—and costs less than most repairs.
Home, termite, and roof inspections help prevent surprises and reduce requests for credits during escrow. A transparent file builds trust and speeds up the offer process.
A Willow Glen home that Kip and Tam prepped with light paint, new lighting, landscaping, and staging received multiple offers within a week—without any major renovations.
Kip and Tam walk through your home room‑by‑room and recommend:
- Must‑do fixes
- Optional upgrades
- Items you can safely ignore
Their goal is to help you maximize value without overspending.
If you’re unsure how much work your home needs before selling, Kip and Tam of The Barnard Group at Compass can create a customized prep plan based on your goals and timeline.
Visit www.kipandtam.com to schedule your consultation.
Watch this quick breakdown from Kip and Tam: Which Home Fixes ACTUALLY Pay Off in San Jose?
YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/waKlwqZ-hQo
How to Decide What’s Worth Fixing
Here’s What You Need to Know
Your Timing Should Fit Your Goals
In San Jose, the fastest and most profitable sales happen when a home shows beautifully and launches with the right price and timing.
How Capital Gains Tax Works
Kip and Tam Explain
Why Multiple Offers Matter
Winter vs. Spring: What San Jose Sellers Should Know
Why Strategic Renovations Matter
We believe the process of buying or selling your home should be enjoyable as well as rewarding. Our commitment to our clients is to work hard and provide them with a hassle-free, fun experience. We know how to make this stressful time much easier with our professional expertise, marketplace knowledge, high-tech marketing strategies as well as our enthusiastic team spirit.