Common wisdom is that selling a property is about location, location, location. But it’s also about presentation – and Cayman property experts all agree that renovated properties sell faster and fetch higher prices.

This is particularly true for the condo market, where renovation windows are seasonal. Buyers—especially those new to the island or non-residents—prefer the convenience of a move-in-ready home.

“Even if buyers don’t love the finishes, they can live with them for a year or two while they plan their own changes,” observes Eric Kline, senior project manager at design-build firm Encompass, “whereas a property that needs months of work before it can be used is far less appealing to buyers.”

But renovating to sell is a different beast from renovating for personal use. It’s not about your personal style, but about appealing to a broad range of buyers, cautions George Evans, owner of GPE Services. Rather than investing in indulgent upgrades, homeowners must be strategic and consider what buyers expect as standard in a given price range, which renovations will deliver a return on investment and which will not.

START AT THE HEART

As the heart of the home, kitchens are the most trafficked and most public space and therefore the focus of most renovations.

“While condo renovations are limited by plumbing locations and supporting columns, creating more open layouts where structurally possible can transform a property’s feel,” says Sophie Sweeting, interior designer at Design Studio. “Knocking through walls between kitchen and living areas immediately creates a more contemporary, inviting atmosphere.”

A kitchen’s layout is paramount. If the flow is awkward, even the finest finishes won’t redeem it. Today’s trend is to separate cooktops and ovens rather than stacking them, Eric says, and replace split-level islands with large single-height islands that double as dining spaces – practical changes that enhance functionality.

OUTDOOR ATTENTION

The potential for outdoor living is a prime selling point on a Caribbean island, but many older properties have undersized windows that don’t do justice to the views and sunny skies.

“Creating big floor-to-ceiling glass areas – whether it’s a window or just an opening – brings the outdoors in, and makes a space feel larger, which really adds value,” Eric says.

Hurricane-rated doors and windows are another smart investment that improves both aesthetics and safety. For energy-conscious buyers (that’s everyone these days), insulated, low-E glass offers the added benefit of improved efficiency.

SHOWER POWER

When it comes to bathrooms, the clean, serene aesthetic reigns supreme. Large-format porcelain tiles create fewer grout lines and a more luxurious feel. Coordinated fixtures – from faucets to shower heads – establish a cohesive, updated look, while frameless glass shower screens add an instant upscale touch.

But the bathroom upgrade with the biggest impact? Rethinking the bath-shower equation.

“Baths look great but they don’t usually see much use,” Eric notes. “One of the biggest things we do is take out baths and create big walk-in showers in their place, with benches and niches for shampoos and soaps.”

While keeping one bath in larger homes (typically in the master suite) makes sense, when forced to choose, the consensus is clear: showers win the day.

BALANCE THE BUDGET

It’s also crucial to work out a sensible budget and stick to it, Sophie notes. Research the ceiling price for comparable properties in your area, and don’t spend more than you can realistically make back. Working with professionals who are familiar with the costs and timelines will ensure your project stays on track.

Beware of blowing the budget on a showstopper kitchen or an ultra-luxury bathroom and neglecting the rest of the property. Fortunately, refreshing other rooms need not break the bank. Fresh paint and updated flooring work wonders throughout a home. If selling furnished, Sophie suggests directing some funds toward quality sofas and beds, thus removing another potential sticking point for buyers.

RENOVATION RED FLAGS

Beware of making changes based on your personal tastes, and of spending your budget on niche features that may not appeal to all demographics. “Different people value different features,” Eric cautions. “When considering major works such as building pools, or specialty additions like home gyms, steam showers or games rooms, think carefully about whether these are upgrades a buyer would necessarily want.”

Similarly, elaborate smart home systems, while technologically impressive, might be better left for buyers to implement according to their own preferences and technological comfort level. When it comes to design choices, resist the urge to go bold or very contemporary, Sophie says, and instead stick to neutral palettes and natural materials that will not quickly date. And don’t splash out on high-end marble, designer light fixtures or imported tiles that you love – the aim is to create a blank canvas that potential buyers can project their vision onto.

PLAN FOR SUCCESS

With any renovation, once you start knocking down walls and pulling up floors, George cautions, you may uncover unexpected issues – mould, plumbing problems, or structural concerns – that must be addressed, so be flexible with time frames and realistic with expectations. Between drawing up plans, sourcing materials and acquiring permits (mandatory if you’re moving structural walls) allow a year, he says, plus actual construction time.

Ultimately, the goal isn’t to create your fantasy home but rather a property where prospective buyers can envision their future. Focus on universally valued fundamentals, ensure quality finishes throughout, and remember: the most effective renovations aren’t necessarily the most expensive ones – they’re the most thoughtfully considered.