How to Finance Home Renovations Before Selling: Smart Options to Boost Your Home’s Value

Are you preparing to sell your home but overwhelmed by the cost of necessary upgrades? You're not alone. Renovating before selling can help your home sell faster and for more money—but the upfront costs often stop homeowners in their tracks.

The good news? You don’t have to dip into your savings. There are smart financing options that allow you to make valuable home improvements now and reap the rewards at closing.

In our latest video, we team up with a remodeling expert from JSB Home Solutions to break down how to finance home updates before selling—without the stress.

🎥 [Watch the full video here]

Why Renovate Before Selling Your Home?

In today’s competitive market, move-in-ready homes have a clear advantage. Buyers are willing to pay more for updated kitchens, fresh paint, and modern finishes. By making targeted improvements, you can boost your home’s market value, attract more offers, and close the deal faster.

Top Pre-Sale Renovation Projects That Add Value:

• Kitchen and bathroom remodels
• Fresh interior and exterior paint
• Flooring upgrades
• Curb appeal and landscaping improvements
• Updated lighting and fixtures
  
  

Best Ways to Finance Home Renovations Before Selling

Here are six popular financing options that make it possible to update your home now—and pay later:

1. Home Equity Loan

Borrow a lump sum against your home’s equity at a fixed interest rate. Ideal for large, one-time renovation projects.

2. HELOC (Home Equity Line of Credit)

A revolving line of credit based on your home equity. Great for ongoing or phased projects, but interest rates can vary.

3. Personal Loans

Quick and unsecured, these loans don’t require home equity. Good for smaller projects—but rates may be higher.

4. Credit Cards

Best for low-cost updates like paint or fixtures. Only recommended if you can pay off the balance quickly due to high interest rates.

5. Cash-Out Refinance

Refinance your mortgage and take out extra cash to fund renovations. This option works well for major upgrades with long-term return.

6. Contractor Financing

Some remodeling companies, like JSB Home Solutions, offer in-house financing—sometimes with promotional rates or no interest for a limited time.

How to Choose the Right Renovation Financing Option

Before committing, ask yourself:

• What’s the total cost of your renovations?
• How soon do you plan to list your home?
• Which updates will yield the best ROI in your area?
• Do you have equity or strong credit?
  
  

Working with a trusted real estate professional—like someone of The Carter Group—can help you decide which improvements will make the biggest impact in your local market.

Is Financing Pre-Sale Renovations Worth It?

In most cases, yes. Strategic upgrades in key areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and curb appeal often lead to a higher sale price and faster closing. But it’s important to choose updates and financing solutions that align with your goals and timeline.

Talk to your agent and remodeling contractor to create a smart, budget-conscious plan.

Ready to Renovate and Sell in Central Ohio?

Whether you're looking to update your home before listing or simply want to increase its value, we’re here to help.

🔨 JSB Home Solutions offers expert remodeling services and flexible financing options for homeowners preparing to sell.
🏡 The Carter Group with Keller Williams Consultants will guide you through the selling process—from renovations to closing.

📩 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and make the most of your home sale!

Partnering for a Purpose: Proud Sponsor of the 2025 Nat Gala

At The Carter Group, we believe real estate is about more than homes—it's about community. That’s why we’re incredibly proud to sponsor the 2025 Nat Gala, the signature event hosted by the Natalie Gray Foundation, an organization leading the charge in the fight against pediatric brain cancer.

Honoring a Mission Born from Courage

The Natalie Gray Foundation was founded by Natalie Gray, who was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor at just 13 years old. Instead of letting the diagnosis define her, Natalie turned it into a mission—creating a foundation to fund lifesaving research and raise critical awareness.

Each year, approximately 3,920 children in the U.S. are diagnosed with a primary brain or central nervous system tumor, making brain tumors the most common solid cancer in children and the leading cause of cancer-related death in kids under 15.

Turning Statistics into Action

The Natalie Gray Foundation is helping shift those statistics. It supports the CONNECT Consortium, a global collaboration of leading pediatric cancer centers working together to advance treatment and improve outcomes for children around the world.

Since its inception, the foundation has already raised $175,000 toward a $250,000 goal, supporting innovative research and offering hope to the more than 28,000 children in the U.S. currently living with a brain tumor diagnosis.

The overall five-year survival rate for children with primary brain tumors is around 83.1%, but that number drops for more aggressive types—making funding for early detection, targeted treatments, and clinical trials more important than ever.

The Nat Gala: Where Hope Meets Community

The Nat Gala is more than an event—it’s a movement. Each year, it brings together survivors, families, advocates, researchers, and donors for an inspiring evening of fundraising and celebration.

As proud sponsors of the 2025 Gala, The Carter Group stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Natalie and her team. We’re committed not only to homes and neighborhoods—but to hearts and futures.

💛 Join Us in Making a Difference

Whether through donations, attendance, or simply spreading the word, you can be part of the progress. Learn more about Natalie’s story and how to support this life-changing work at nataliegrayfoundation.org.

Together, we can help ensure that children facing pediatric brain cancer have a brighter, healthier tomorrow.

Lighting a Vaulted, Open-Concept Space: Why Is It So Stressful?!

Lighting a Vaulted, Open-Concept Space: Why Is It So Stressful?!

Lately, I’ve been knee-deep in lighting decisions for our renovation—and it’s honestly way harder than I expected! I'm currently trying to pick a linear light for over our kitchen island and a drum light for the dining area. With our vaulted ceilings and open-concept layout, I quickly realized the wrong fixture could totally throw off the vibe of the entire space.

Thankfully, I’m not doing this alone—I’m working with an amazing interior designer, Susan from SC Designs. She’s been a huge help in narrowing down options and pulling everything together in a way that feels polished but still true to our style. If you’re in the Columbus area and need design help, definitely check her out at scdesigns614.com. You’ll love her eye for detail and how easy she makes the process!

While doing my own research, I found a few super helpful resources:

• Kitchen Vaulted Ceiling Lighting Ideas from Lightopia

• Illuminating Elegance: Rules of Light Fixtures Above the Kitchen Island by J. Jones Design Co.

Both articles made me realize just how important scale, proportion, and ceiling height are when choosing fixtures—especially in open-concept spaces with vaulted ceilings. Tiny lights that look adorable online can completely disappear once you actually install them in a tall, wide room. (Definitely almost made that mistake!)

Here in Central Ohio, homes with open layouts and high ceilings are in major demand. According to the Columbus REALTORS® 2024 Housing Report, homes featuring updated kitchens and modern layouts—including statement lighting—are selling 22% faster than traditional floor plans. Buyers love the light, airy feel vaulted ceilings offer, but they also expect a cohesive, finished look when it comes to lighting and design.

Tips for Choosing Lighting in Vaulted and Open Spaces

For our kitchen island, I learned that a longer linear pendant or a series of larger fixtures is the way to go. The Lightopia article emphasized using lighting to visually "anchor" the island without overwhelming the space. J. Jones Design Co. broke it down even further—talking about ideal sizing and spacing. (Did you know your island lights should typically span about two-thirds the width of the island?!)

For the dining space, I’m leaning toward a bold drum pendant. It’ll help define the area under the vaulted ceiling without closing it off visually. Both articles also recommended looking for adjustable height fixtures—which makes so much sense with varying ceiling heights!

Adding the right fixtures can truly pay off: the 2023 National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) study found that lighting upgrades offer an estimated 67% ROI (return on investment) during resale—especially when styled correctly in open-concept homes like ours.

Stressful...But Worth It

Even with all this info (and Susan’s incredible guidance!), it’s still so stressful trying to picture how everything will look together. There are SO many options out there, and it's easy to second-guess every decision. But feeling more educated about scale, ceiling lines, and layout has made a huge difference in narrowing things down and making choices I’ll actually love long-term.

If you’re renovating, building, or just updating your lights:

• Definitely check out the resources above.

• Measure everything twice.

• And don’t be afraid to call in an expert like Susan—working with a designer has made this process 10x less overwhelming.

Central Ohio’s housing market continues to evolve, and thoughtful upgrades like good lighting aren’t just trendy—they’re smart investments. I’ll keep you posted once I finally make some decisions (and if you have a favorite island light or dining room pendant, seriously send it my way—I need all the inspo I can get!).

💡 Quick Local Stat Snap:

✅ Homes with upgraded kitchens in Central Ohio sell 22% faster.
✅ Lighting upgrades can provide a 67% ROI at resale.
✅ Vaulted ceilings remain a top 5 feature buyers look for in suburban Columbus neighborhoods (source: Columbus REALTORS® 2024 Trends Report).

I'll keep you posted once I finally make some decisions (and if you have a favorite island light or dining room pendant, seriously send it my way—I need all the inspo I can get!).

What Motivates a Move? The 5 D’s of Real Estate

At The Carter Group, we know that behind every home sale is a personal story—and more often than not, those stories begin with one of the "5 D’s": Death, Divorce, Debt, Downsizing, and Departure.

These major life events are some of the most common reasons people decide to buy or sell. Understanding the real moments behind each move allows us to better serve our clients—with empathy, purpose, and expert guidance.

1. Death

Losing a loved one is deeply emotional, and settling an estate can be overwhelming.
We work compassionately with families during these sensitive times to guide them through the real estate process with patience, respect, and care.

According to the National Association of Realtors, 6% of home sales nationwide in 2023 were estate-related—and in Central Ohio’s aging population (with 15% over age 65, according to the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission), estate planning and sales are an increasingly common need.

2. Divorce

Divorce is often one of life’s most stressful experiences, and when a home is part of the equation, it can add an extra layer of complexity.
Our team offers neutral, supportive representation, helping both parties navigate sales fairly, efficiently, and with the sensitivity the situation deserves.

In 2024, Franklin County saw over 2,700 divorce filings (Ohio Department of Health), a reminder that transitions like these are a real part of life—and that having calm, skilled advocates can make a world of difference.

3. Debt

Financial challenges happen, and sometimes selling a home is the best path back to stability.
We offer honest advice and smart strategies to help homeowners make informed decisions, whether it's preparing a quick sale or exploring alternatives like a short sale.

With mortgage interest rates rising and inflation affecting household budgets, the Columbus REALTORS® March 2024 Market Report shows that sellers who price strategically in the current market are still seeing strong offers—even when selling under financial pressure.

4. Downsizing

For empty nesters or retirees, downsizing is often about more freedom and less maintenance.
We help make that next step smooth and empowering, matching clients with homes that better fit their new lifestyle.

In Central Ohio, the trend is clear: 55+ active adult communities and low-maintenance condos are growing faster than ever. Demand for "right-sized" living has increased by 18% over the past three years, according to Columbus Business First.

5. Departure

Job changes, relocations, or simply a lifestyle shift can all mean it’s time to move.
Whether you're leaving Columbus for a new opportunity or moving closer to family, we offer detailed planning, local market insight, and national relocation connections to make your move smooth and stress-free.

Fun Fact: Columbus is one of the Top 10 fastest-growing cities in the U.S. (U.S. Census Bureau, 2024), which means both inbound and outbound moves are more active than ever.

How We Help

At The Carter Group, we believe real estate is about so much more than just transactions. It’s about building relationships, serving with compassion, and delivering real solutions during life’s big transitions.

Whether you're facing one of the 5 D’s yourself—or helping a family member or friend navigate a move—we're here with expert guidance, genuine care, and proven results.

If you're ready to talk about your next step, we’d be honored to be part of your journey.

To see what your home is worth - use our valuation page: 

HOME VALUATION

📈 Quick Central Ohio Snapshot:

✅ 15% of Central Ohio residents are over age 65 (MORPC).
✅ Divorce filings continue to impact housing demand (Ohio Dept of Health).
✅ Downsizing trends are up 18% in Columbus since 2020 (Columbus Business First).
✅ Columbus ranks among the Top 10 fastest-growing cities (U.S. Census Bureau).

When’s the Best Time to Remodel Before Selling Your Home?

Thinking about remodeling before you sell? Smart move—but timing is everything. A well-planned remodel can boost your home’s value and help it sell faster. But if you start too early, your updates might feel dated by the time you list. Too late, and you risk rushing the job or delaying your sale.

In this video, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZkDyLHAEtU&t=1s remodeling expert, Callie, from JSB Home Solutions and realtor Kendra Carter from The Carter Group (Keller Williams Realty) break down how to time your remodel, which updates offer the best return, and whether it’s worth remodeling at all—or just selling as-is.

Generally, experts recommend planning your remodel 6 to 12 months before listing. That gives you plenty of time to finish the work, make smart design choices, and avoid last-minute stress. Some projects—like full kitchen remodels—can take months, while smaller updates like painting, lighting, or hardware changes can be done in just days or weeks.

If you're aiming for the best return on investment, focus on kitchens, bathrooms, and curb appeal. A fresh coat of paint, updated fixtures, or a new front door can go a long way. But if your kitchen or bathroom is really outdated, a full remodel might be worth the cost—especially in a competitive market.

Not sure whether to renovate or sell as-is? It depends on your market. In a seller’s market, simple cosmetic fixes might be enough. But in a buyer’s market, updated spaces can help your home stand out.

Seasonality matters, too. If possible, aim to complete renovations before fall so you’re ready to list in spring or early summer—prime time for buyers.

Once renovations are done, give your home a little time to settle. A couple of weeks for staging, touch-ups, and deep cleaning can make a big difference before you hit the market.

Need expert guidance?
🔨 JSB Home Solutions can help you plan and complete your remodel
🏡 The Carter Group will help you list and sell with confidence

Why More Homeowners Are Choosing to Remodel (and Where They’re Getting the Best Bang for Their Buck)
April 2025

With property values on the rise, many homeowners are choosing to stay put—and remodel. And it's not just because moving feels out of reach. According to the 2025 Remodeling Impact Report from the National Association of Realtors and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, most people aren’t remodeling because of housing affordability or high mortgage rates. In fact, only 10% of surveyed homeowners listed that as a reason.

So why the remodeling boom?

It turns out, many homeowners are tapping into their home equity. With increased property values, they’re able to reinvest in their homes without taking on major financial risk. The study shows that 54% used a home equity loan or line of credit to fund their updates. Another 29% used savings, and 10% relied on credit cards.

Why Remodel Now?
The top reason homeowners gave for renovating was simple: their home’s materials and systems were aging. 27% of respondents wanted to upgrade outdated parts of their home. Another 19% were focused on improving energy efficiency, while 18% just wanted a change—or were preparing to sell in the next couple of years.

What Projects Pay Off?
Not all remodels offer the same return on investment. Interestingly, a new steel front door came out on top with full cost recovery, thanks to its durability, energy efficiency, and added security.

Real estate agents also report high demand for kitchen upgrades and new roofing. And when it comes to selling, the most common advice? Paint. 51% of agents recommend painting the entire home before listing, while 41% suggest painting at least one room.

DIY or Hire a Pro?
Homeowners are pretty split on how they handle renovations. The report found that:

• 29% hired a professional for the whole job

• 24% did the project themselves

• 24% opted for a mix—buying materials themselves, but hiring a pro for the labor

What Matters Most in the End?
Once the dust settles, homeowners say what matters most is how the remodel makes the home function better (28%). Others value how it looks (23%) or how durable and long-lasting the materials and appliances are. And 15% focused on green features and energy savings.

Here’s one stat that really stood out:
92% of homeowners said they’d remodel even more if cost wasn’t a factor.

Thinking about remodeling?
If you’re not sure which updates make the most sense for your home—or if you’re considering remodeling before selling—reach out! I’m happy to help you weigh your options and figure out what improvements could offer the best return in our local market.

Check out our other posts on remodeling!

• Remodeling Mistakes
• Best Kitchen Upgrades
• JSB Home Solutions Youtube
• Top 5 Kitchen Remodels
• Renovate or Sell AS-IS

Source: 2025 Remodeling Impact Report by the National Association of Realtors and the National Association of the Remodeling Industry, April 2025.

7 Remodeling Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Home’s Resale Value (And What to Do Instead)

Thinking about remodeling to boost your home’s appeal before selling? You're not alone. Strategic upgrades can absolutely increase value—but some popular trends might do the opposite, turning potential buyers away.

In collaboration with JSB Home Solutions, we’re breaking down 7 common remodeling mistakes that could hurt your home's resale value—and offering smart alternatives that attract buyers instead.

1. Over-the-Top Luxury Kitchens & Bathrooms

Luxury finishes and top-of-the-line appliances can be tempting, but over-investing might price your home out of the neighborhood. Buyers could see it as overpriced or too customized.

What to do instead:
Opt for stylish, mid-range upgrades with wide appeal—think quartz countertops, classic subway tile, and energy-efficient appliances.

2. High-Maintenance Outdoor Living Spaces

Pools, extravagant landscaping, and full-scale outdoor kitchens look great in photos, but many buyers see them as time-consuming and expensive to maintain.

Smarter choice:
Create low-maintenance outdoor spaces with simple patios, clean landscaping, and cozy seating areas that feel inviting—without the upkeep.

3. Overly Personalized Kitchens & Bathrooms

Bright cabinetry, quirky fixtures, and bold tile may reflect your personality, but they can alienate buyers who prefer a neutral canvas.

Resale-friendly tip:
Stick to timeless finishes, neutral tones, and classic designs that let buyers imagine their own style in the space.

4. Specialty Room Conversions

Turning a bedroom into a gym, theater, or office might suit your lifestyle—but it can limit your home's flexibility and functionality.

Better option:
Stage rooms to feel multi-purpose. A guest room that doubles as a home office, for example, showcases versatility without sacrificing square footage.

5. Excessive Smart Home Technology

While some smart home features add value, overloading your home with complex systems can overwhelm buyers—especially if the tech becomes obsolete quickly.

Keep it simple:
Install easy-to-use upgrades like a smart thermostat, video doorbell, or smart lighting that enhance convenience without requiring a tech manual.

6. Oversized Master Suites (at the Expense of Bedrooms)

Expanding your master suite by removing a bedroom may create a luxurious space, but it can also decrease your home’s value by reducing total bedroom count.

Balance is key:
Focus on upgrading the primary suite with modern finishes and better lighting, but leave the floor plan intact to preserve bedroom flexibility.

7. Removing Closets or Storage

In an attempt to create more open space, some homeowners eliminate closets or built-in storage. This often backfires—buyers need storage!

Instead, maximize what you have:
Add built-ins, closet organizers, or under-stair storage to enhance functionality without taking storage space away.

Plan Your Remodel with Resale in Mind

Not all home improvements pay off when it's time to sell. If you're planning updates with resale in mind, make sure your remodeling decisions enhance both livability and long-term value.

💡 Need expert help deciding what’s right for your home?
Reach out to the pros:

• 🛠️ JSB Home Solutions – for smart remodeling strategies that increase market appeal

• 🏡 The Carter Group at Keller Williams Realty – for expert guidance on selling your home with confidence

In this video, remodeling expert JSB Home Solutions and realtor Kendra Carter from The Carter Group share the top five kitchen upgrades that can help sell your home faster and for a higher price—without needing a full renovation.

Top 5 Kitchen Remodels That Attract Buyers:

1. Update Your Countertops – Choose durable, high-end materials like quartz or granite in neutral tones.

2. Refresh Your Cabinets – Reface or repaint cabinets for a modern look; replace if necessary.

3. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances – Stainless steel and energy-saving models appeal to buyers.

4. Improve Kitchen Lighting – Add under-cabinet lights, stylish pendants, or recessed lighting.

5. Update Flooring – Opt for durable, neutral options like hardwood, tile, or luxury vinyl plank.

Budget-Friendly Upgrade Tips:

• Focus on high-impact areas like countertops, cabinets, and lighting.

• Small updates (new hardware, fresh paint, or a backsplash) can still increase market appeal.

Staging for Maximum Buyer Appeal:

• Clear clutter and store bulky appliances.

• Add simple decorative touches like fresh flowers or a fruit bowl.

A well-upgraded, staged kitchen makes a strong first impression and can be the difference between multiple offers and a slow sale.

📞 Need help? Contact JSB Home Solutions for remodeling or Kendra Carter with The Carter Group for expert real estate guidance!

Thinking of Buying a Fixer-Upper?

Fixer-uppers can be a great way to create your dream home and build equity—but only if you know what to look for! To make a smart investment, you need to evaluate key factors like location, structural integrity, remodeling costs, and untapped potential.

We know this is a big decision, and that’s why we teamed up with JSB Home Solutions to tackle this exact topic in their latest YouTube video!

In this video, we break down seven essential tips to help you spot the right fixer-upper and avoid costly mistakes. Ready to dive in? Watch it here: 7 Essential Factors to Evaluate.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to their channel for more expert home tips and advice. Got specific questions about your home? Drop them in the comments of the video, and we’ll be happy to help!