Money, time, and energy are among our most valuable resources—especially when selling a home in Coquitlam, Port Moody, or Port Coquitlam. As you prepare your property for the market, it’s important to focus your efforts where they’ll have the biggest impact. Some updates or repairs may seem worthwhile but often don’t provide a strong return in today’s local market.

Here are a few examples of what may not be worth the investment:

• Window treatments – Unless they’re damaged or outdated, there’s no need to replace them. Buyers in the Tri-Cities often prefer to choose their own styles.

• Appliances – If they’re still working and not extremely dated, keep them. If replacement is needed, consider gently used options.

• Floors – Refinish hardwood instead of replacing it, and deep-clean other flooring types. Full replacement rarely adds significant value unless the floors are in rough condition.

• HVAC systems – Older but functional systems can stay. Buyers here often plan for upgrades over time.

• Minor electrical or plumbing issues – Small items like a loose switch or a slow-draining tap typically don’t affect buyer perception.

• Older code violations – Building codes evolve constantly in the Tri-Cities area; grandfathered elements are usually acceptable.

• Small cosmetic fixes – Don’t stress over minor imperfections unless you can easily address them yourself.

Pro Tip: Before making any decisions, talk to a local, experienced REALTOR®—like myself—who understands current market conditions in Coquitlam and the Tri-Cities. I can help you determine which updates will actually improve your sale price and which ones are best left alone, based on real data and neighbourhood-specific insights.