When you’re getting ready to sell your home, it’s tempting to want to update any and everything in your home: that outdated bathroom tile, the ceiling fan you never liked, and the garage with not enough shelving. 

But how do you know which updates are worthwhile, and which ones buyers won’t really care about? 

When it comes to the garage, it’s true that some updates will be more valuable than others. Here’s what you need to know about updating your garage before selling. 

Focus on small, functional improvements 

One of the first things to know about garage updates is that it’s almost never going to be worth your while to fully finish your garage right before you sell. 

Things like refinished floors, built-in storage, and insulated walls can add up to a big expense, and chances are—unless your buyer’s a car buff with some seriously valuable cars to store—buyers won’t see those features as providing extra value. 

What they will appreciate, however, is functionality. Stick to easy, DIY garage updates to make sure you recoup what you put in. Storage shelves, a working automatic garage door, and easy access in and out of the home are the things to pay attention to. 

Tidy, organize, and tidy some more

The last thing a buyer wants to see is clutter, no matter what part of the home they’re in—and that includes the garage. 

Decluttering this room can take some time, especially if you use it for storage, so start early, and be thorough! If you haven’t used a particular item in more than a year, consider getting rid of it. 

Once you’ve culled everything you no longer need, it’s time to organize. Use modular storage or small bins on shelves to separate items by type. The good news is that you’ll be able to take this setup with you when you move—just cover your bins, and place them as you like in your new garage!

Clean your garage, paying special attention to the floor

When is the last time you cleaned your garage? If you’re like most people the answer is probably...a long time ago. 

Garages don’t get much attention when it comes to upkeep, because most of us spend so little time in them. But a spotless garage can be a real selling point for buyers. 

To start, move your cars and sweep out any debris. To clean the floor, tackle any stains with dishwasher detergent or concrete floor cleaner, let it sit, and pour boiling water on top of it. A pressure washer will work, too, if you have one.  

If you want to really improve your floor, coat it with a water-based epoxy finish to protect it from further staining and keep it cleaner for longer. 

You can also add in new LED lighting to replace old fluorescent bulbs or single bulbs on a pull-chain. Lights that are bright enough and easily accessible will make your garage feel both cleaner and more modern—two things that every buyer likes to see. 

Updating your garage shouldn’t be a project you spend tons of time and money on. Focus on the important things, and you’ll be much more likely to attract a buyer faster, and obtain a higher return on investment, or Return on Investment (ROI).