Which home updates actually increase resale value in Clermont and Winter Garden?
Stop wasting money on cosmetic projects. See the high-ROI home updates buyers want in West Orlando, Clermont, Winter Garden, Windermere, Minneola, and Montverde.
SELLING A HOME
Eric Stalnaker
10/30/20251 min read
Renovations feel productive, until you learn the market won’t pay for them. Focus on updates buyers notice and that pass a value test in Central Florida’s 2025–2026 market.
Top ROI updates:
Kitchen refresh, not a complete gut—swap outdated cabinets hardware, install modern counters if needed, and update lighting. Kitchens still sell houses.
Fresh interior paint in neutral tones. It’s cheap and powerful.
HVAC servicing and documentation. Buyers value a well-maintained AC far more than a trendy backsplash in Florida.
Roof and structural repairs. These aren’t glamorous, but they remove financing and insurance hurdles.
Curb appeal—landscaping, power washing, clean walkways. First impressions matter more online than you think.
Updates to avoid before selling: elaborate custom finishes that reflect personal taste, luxury add-ons with minimal neighborhood comparables, or heavy landscaping that’s expensive to maintain. In high-end areas like Windermere buyers expect finish quality, but in many Clermont and Minneola neighborhoods buyers prefer practical, move-in-ready condition. Market reports show buyers have more choices in 2025 so they’ll favor homes that are turnkey and transparent. (HouseCanary)
Long term consideration: Energy efficiency and documented resiliency (roof age, hurricane straps, upgraded windows) are growing selling points. With insurance costs elevated, buyers appreciate features that reduce future risk and ongoing expenses. (HouseCanary)
Send me your property link or photos and I’ll give a prioritized list of fixes that will actually move the needle on price and days on market.




