Thinking about selling your South Sound home? Whether you’re in Tacoma, Lakewood, DuPont, Lacey, or Olympia, the right home improvements can help you sell faster, attract more buyers, and get top dollar — without overspending.
The South Sound real estate market is unique. Many military families and professionals move to the area for JBLM, while others relocate for Tacoma’s urban energy or Lakewood’s lakeside charm. No matter where you are in the region, today’s buyers want move-in ready homes with modern updates.
Here are the top five high-ROI improvements that can make your property stand out from other homes for sale in Tacoma, Lakewood, and the surrounding South Sound communities.
1. Fresh Paint = Instant Refresh
A fresh coat of paint is one of the easiest, most affordable ways to make your home look clean, modern, and move-in ready.
Why It Matters:
Many homes in Tacoma, Lakewood, and throughout the South Sound were built in the early 2000s with dated builder colors. Today’s buyers favor warm neutrals, earthy greens, moody blues, and soft blush tones.
Estimated Costs:
- Interior: $2.50–$4 per sq. ft. professionally
- DIY interior: $300–$600 for supplies
- Front door: $50–$150 (DIY) or $300–$500 (pro)
High-ROI Areas:
- Living rooms
- Kitchens
- Primary bedrooms
- Entryways & front doors
ROI Potential:
- Interior paint: Up to 107% ROI
- Front door: Up to 150% ROI
2. Boost Your Curb Appeal
First impressions matter — especially in Tacoma’s historic neighborhoods and Lakewood’s lakefront communities, where homes are often compared side-by-side. A tidy yard and welcoming entry make buyers feel at home instantly.
Quick Wins:
- Fresh mulch in garden beds
- Trimmed bushes and trees
- Potted plants at the front door
- Pressure wash driveways & siding
- Replace outdated house numbers
Estimated Costs:
- Yard cleanup & mulch: $150–$300
- Landscaping refresh: $500–$1,500
- Pressure washing: $200–$400
ROI Potential:
- Landscaping: Up to 100% ROI
- Pressure washing: Up to 200% ROI
3. Kitchen & Bathroom Mini Makeovers
You don’t need a full remodel to impress South Sound buyers. In fact, small, strategic updates can have a huge impact.
DIY-Friendly Upgrades:
- Swap cabinet hardware: $50–$200
- Install a new faucet: $100–$300
- Replace light fixtures: $150–$400 each
- Add a backsplash: $300–$600 (materials)
Pro-Level Upgrades:
- New countertops: $1,000–$2,000
- New sinks or vanities: $500–$1,500
- Cabinet painting: $2,000–$4,000
ROI Potential:
- Minor kitchen remodel: Up to 85% ROI
- Bathroom fixture upgrades: Up to 70% ROI
4. Refresh Flooring
Old carpet or scratched hardwood? Buyers in Tacoma and Lakewood notice instantly. Updating flooring can make your home feel years newer.
Best Choices for the South Sound:
- Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) — durable & water-resistant
- Refinished hardwood floors
- Fresh carpet in bedrooms
Estimated Costs:
- Carpet cleaning: $150–$300
- LVP installation: $2,000–$5,000
- Hardwood refinishing: $2,000–$7,000
ROI Potential:
- LVP: Up to 100% ROI
- Hardwood refinishing: Up to 147% ROI
5. Upgrade Lighting
Lighting is one of the most underrated improvements — but it can completely transform a space, especially during the darker Pacific Northwest months.
High-Impact Updates:
- Replace outdated fixtures
- Add pendant lights over kitchen islands
- Upgrade bathroom vanity lighting
- Install dimmer switches
Estimated Costs:
- Fixtures: $150–$400 each
- Electrician install: $100–$200 per fixture
ROI Potential:
- Lighting upgrades: Up to 70% ROI
Bonus Tips to Sell Faster in the South Sound
- Declutter: Remove excess furniture and personal items.
- Deep Clean: Sparkling homes photograph and show better.
- Fix Minor Repairs: Buyers notice loose handles and leaky faucets.
- Replace Outlet Covers: Fresh white covers = instant update.
- Swap Dated Blinds: White faux wood blinds or neutral curtains work best.
- Smart Home Upgrades: Add thermostats or video doorbells for extra appeal.
Improvements to Skip
- Over-the-top landscaping that requires too much upkeep
- Full kitchen or bathroom remodels before listing
- Expensive luxury features that won’t raise your selling price
- Bold design choices that could turn off buyers