The End of the Fixer-Upper? Why Move-In-Ready Homes Are Selling for More Than Ever Would you pay an extra $13,000 to skip renovations?

Would you pay an extra $13,000 to skip renovations?

For years, the appeal of fixer-uppers has drawn buyers looking for a deal—and inspired a wave of home renovation TV shows. But according to the latest Zillow research, buyers today are prioritizing remodeled homes more than ever, paying nearly 4% more than expected just to skip the hassle of renovations.

Move-In-Ready Homes Are in High Demand

• Buyers are willing to pay 3.7% more (about $13,194 extra) for a home that’s already remodeled.
• These homes get 26% more daily saves and 30% more shares on Zillow than non-remodeled properties.
• Fixer-uppers, on the other hand, are selling for 7.3% less—the biggest discount in three years.

Why Are Buyers Moving Away from Fixer-Uppers?

Once seen as an affordable way to break into homeownership, fixer-uppers no longer hold the same appeal. Here’s why:

• High renovation costs – Inflation and rising interest rates have made home renovations more expensive, wiping out the savings of buying a fixer-upper.
• Limited cash flow – Many buyers are already stretching their budgets to afford a home and don’t have extra funds for renovations.
• Changing market conditions – Unlike the housing boom of the 2010s, home values are stabilizing, making expensive remodels less of a guaranteed return on investment.

How the Market Has Shifted

During the pandemic housing boom, home renovations skyrocketed as buyers sought to customize their living spaces. Now, nearly 30% of all Zillow listings are described as “renovated”—just in time for a wave of buyers looking for move-in-ready homes.

And sellers are taking note. With today’s market dynamics, many are investing in key renovations before listing their homes to attract top-dollar offers.

Should You Buy a Fixer-Upper or a Move-In-Ready Home?

If you’re in the market for a home, the decision between a renovated home and a fixer-upper depends on your priorities:

✔ Move-in-ready homes offer convenience and less stress—but come at a premium.
✔ Fixer-uppers may provide a discount—but require upfront costs and patience.

No matter which route you take, understanding today’s market trends can help you make the best financial decision.

Which side are you on? Would you rather pay more for a move-in-ready home or take on a fixer-upper for a better deal? Share your thoughts!

Kristen Smith, Realtor Best San Antonio Realtor