In real estate, sometimes the smallest changes can have the biggest impact. At 300 Columbus Ave, I helped an elderly couple transform their outdated Boston condo, turning it into a property that sold for $75K more than they’d originally expected, all with just a $30K investment in renovations. Here’s how we turned their outdated space into a sought-after home in a seamless, stress-free process.

A Condo Stuck in Time

The couple had lived in their Columbus Ave condo for over 30 years. Though the location was fantastic and the unit had good features, it hadn’t seen any updates in decades. The kitchen and bathrooms were dated, the patio needed a refresh, and the spaces felt dark.

The couple was ready to sell but didn’t want to deal with the headaches of managing a renovation. They had no desire to pick out paint colors, select finishes, or oversee contractors. They simply wanted to sell the condo for a good price, but didn’t quite know how to get there. That’s where I came in.

A Stress-Free Renovation

After meeting with the couple and assessing the space, I put together a renovation plan with a fixed budget of $30K. The goal was simple: make updates that would bring the condo into the modern age and maximize its value without going over budget.

Here’s what we focused on:

• Kitchen Modernization: The kitchen was the heart of the home but it was stuck in the past. We updated the paint throughout to a modern, sleek white which brightened the space and brought more attention to key features like the built-in wine rack and stainless steel appliances.

• Bedroom & Bathroom Updates: We updated finishes such as lighting and mirrors, as well as the darker wall paint throughout, to make the spaces feel fresh and inviting.

• Patio Refresh: The patio, while large and private with tree cover and fencing, was cluttered and unkempt. We power-washed the beautiful original brick to bring it back to life and curated the space to showcase its welcoming, serene appeal.

• Staging Throughout: First impressions matter, so we focused on the overall cohesion of the home's appearance. Inside, we staged the condo to highlight its best features, making it feel modern and move-in ready. Outside, we added a couch and coffee table on the patio to set the scene for prospective buyers.

Throughout the process, I managed everything—from selecting contractors to keeping the work on track—so the couple didn’t have to worry about a thing. They were able to sit back and let me take care of the details.

A Sale $75K Over Expectations

Once the renovation was complete, the condo was ready for market. We listed the property at a competitive price that reflected all the updates, and it quickly gained attention from buyers. In just a short time, we received multiple offers.

The condo ended up selling for $75K more than the couple’s original expectations, proving that with the right updates, even a modest investment can make a huge difference in the final sale price.

The Power of a Smart Renovation

This project at 300 Columbus Ave shows just how powerful a well-planned renovation can be. With a clear budget, careful choices about where to invest, and a focus on high-impact updates, we increased the condo’s value significantly without putting the couple through the stress of managing the renovation themselves.

If you’re thinking about selling your home and want to maximize its value, a thoughtful renovation can be the key to getting top dollar. Just like at 300 Columbus Ave, the right updates can unlock your property’s potential and lead to a sale that far exceeds your expectations.