How Move In Ready Homes Are Winning in 2025

Remodeled and move‑in‑ready homes are now selling for 4% more than expected a significant jump from just 0.8% last year while fixer uppers face a growing 7.3% discount compared to updated properties. For sellers, presenting a ready to move in home is no longer optional it’s a strategic advantage.

📝 Introduction

The shift is clear today’s buyers, squeezed by rising mortgage rates and inflated renovation costs, want convenience and certainty. In fact, homes needing work are selling for a steep discount compared to their updated counterparts. For sellers, this means that even modest improvements especially in high-impact areas can significantly boost both sale price and speed. Here are five strategic moves that can turn your listing into a buyer magnet.

🔑 5 Pro Moves to Maximize Your Move‑In-Ready Edge

1. Invest in High ROI Upgrades

Kitchens and major systems deliver some of the strongest ROI buyers recognize value there first.

Now: Focus on key updates fresh kitchen paint or new countertops, new roof or HVAC systems to push your home into the “turnkey” sweet spot that commands a premium.

2. Present as “Move In Ready”

Move in ready homes are fetching 4% higher sale prices than expected, a major swing from just 0.8% last year.

Now: Highlight completed upgrades and warranty offers in your listing, marketing materials, and tug on buyer confidence with “ready to live” narratives.

3. Stage Around Renovations

In a market with rising inventory, staging helps your upgrades pop.

Now: Showcase kitchen and bathroom updates with fresh styling and professional staging let buyers see themselves enjoying the spaces immediately.

4. Market Completed Upgrades Upfront

Buyers scroll quickly lead with benefit.

Now: Use headlines like “New Roof & Kitchen, Move In Ready!” Emphasize low logistics living and show buyers they’re ahead, not starting from scratch.

5. Price to Reflect Your Work

While major renovations fetch premiums, minor upgrades won’t justify large price tags.

Now: Align asking price with your level of modernization. Data shows move in ready homes reap rewards but only if price reflects the quality of updates compared to fixer uppers.

✅ What You Can Do Now