Deciding whether to undertake DIY renovation before selling involves weighing the potential to increase property value against the time, cost, and risk involved. As of December 2025, Melbourne’s property market favours well-presented homes, but not necessarily extensively renovated ones.
Currently in Melbourne, particularly in the Eastern Suburbs, buyers often seek properties with renovation potential, especially families looking for value in areas like Balwyn and Ringwood. A cosmetic refresh – painting (typically $400-$800 per room), new carpets, and decluttering – generally yields a good return. However, larger-scale renovations can be a gamble. In 2026, a median dwelling value of around $823,495 means even a 5% increase requires a significant investment. Sellers should realise that incomplete or poorly executed renovations can detract from value. Fletchers’ experience shows that buyers often have specific tastes, and a renovation might not align with their vision. Professional styling ($2,000-$8,000) is often a more cost-effective way to maximise appeal, highlighting a property’s best features. The typical sales campaign duration of 4-6 weeks doesn’t always allow sufficient time to complete substantial works.
Ultimately, the ‘worth’ of DIY renovation depends on the property’s condition, the extent of the work, and current market conditions, and it’s important to emphasise that a strategic presentation can often be more impactful than a full-scale overhaul.