Which Home Improvements Deliver the Best ROI in NYC?
When preparing your home for sale in New York City, not all upgrades are created equal. “Every renovation must earn its return,” says Randy Baruh of The Randy Baruh Team at Compass. “The key is investing where the market rewards you most.”
In neighborhoods like Cobble Hill, Brooklyn Heights, and Park Slope, timeless upgrades — refinished hardwood floors, fresh paint, and lighting enhancements — deliver consistent value. “Buyers want move-in ready, not over-customized,” Baruh notes. In Tribeca and Chelsea, where modern design dominates, high-end kitchens, sleek bathrooms, and smart-home automation create instant appeal.
Before renovating, Randy’s team conducts a ROI assessment using local sales data. “We compare your property to the top-performing listings nearby,” he says. “If those homes have open kitchens or new primary baths, that’s your cue.”
Even small aesthetic changes can transform buyer perception. “We’ve increased sale prices by six figures with simple staging, hardware swaps, and a neutral color palette,” Baruh adds. “It’s about removing friction — buyers fall in love with ease.”
Through Compass Concierge, Randy helps clients fund cosmetic improvements with no upfront cost, recouped at closing. “It’s the smartest way to elevate your listing and outperform the competition,” he says.
In the NYC market, presentation equals profit. “You don’t need a gut renovation,” Baruh emphasizes. “You need strategic enhancement — guided by someone who understands exactly what buyers want right now.”