How to sell an apartment without renovating it
Many owners decide to sell their apartment without carrying out any renovation work, as this is both time-consuming and costly. However, it is important to realise that this involves a trade-off: an apartment that has not been renovated usually sells for less, meaning the owner may lose out on potential profit.
According to market analysts, the price difference between a renovated apartment and one that is not can be as much as 20–40 per cent, and in some cities even up to 50–55 per cent. For example, in Kyiv, unrenovated one-bedroom apartments cost on average around $53,000, whereas similar renovated apartments cost over $80,000.
It is also important to understand that buyers are not simply paying for new wallpaper and tiles, but for the opportunity to move in and start living there immediately. An unrenovated apartment appeals to a narrower segment of buyers — those who are willing to spend time and money on repairs and interior design. This reduces demand and often leads to more aggressive price negotiations.
And yet, even without renovation work, it is possible to sell an apartment quickly and at a good price. The key is to present the property effectively and develop a smart sales strategy. In this article, we’ll look at five tips to help owners sell their homes without renovating them.
1. Set a Fair and Competitive Price with Room for Negotiation
One of the most common mistakes when selling an unrenovated apartment is pricing it based on renovated properties and offering only a small discount. Buyers compare not only the size and location, but also future renovation costs, including materials, labour and the time required for repairs.
It is best to factor in the price difference from the outset and leave room for negotiation. An unrenovated apartment should be significantly cheaper than similar renovated properties; otherwise, it may remain on the market for too long.
Compare apartments that haven’t been renovated in your area rather than every listing on the market.
Take into account the condition of the building, the floor and the layout.
Don’t inflate the price “just in case” — the first 2–3 weeks are crucial for generating interest.
2. Get Your Apartment Ready for Viewings Without Carrying Out Repairs
Many people believe that if an apartment hasn’t been renovated, there’s no need to prepare it for viewings. This is a common mistake that significantly reduces buyers’ interest. Even minimal preparation can improve first impressions.
Give the apartment a thorough clean — the windows, floors, bathroom and kitchen should be spotless.
Fix obvious defects such as leaks, broken sockets and poorly secured doors.
Remove clutter and old furniture to make the rooms appear larger.
Eliminate unpleasant odours, especially damp or musty smells.
3. Highlight the Apartment’s Potential, Not Its Current Condition
First-time buyers often struggle to imagine how an old apartment can be transformed into a modern living space. It is important to help them visualise the property’s future potential.
Include examples of possible renovation ideas in the advertisement.
Prepare a simple furniture layout plan if possible.
Describe the apartment’s advantages clearly, such as the possibility of creating an open-plan kitchen and living room.
4. Take High-Quality Photos and Provide an Honest Description
Even an unrenovated apartment can look attractive in a listing if it is presented correctly. Poor-quality or dark photos often reduce the number of enquiries and create suspicion among buyers.
Take photos during daylight hours with curtains open.
Choose angles that highlight the space rather than problem areas.
Add photos of the building entrance and the view from the window.
Be honest about the apartment’s condition and present renovation as an opportunity for personal customisation.
5. Seek Professional Help
Selling an unrenovated apartment involves more than simply publishing an advert online. It is important to value the property correctly, highlight its advantages and negotiate confidently with buyers.
A professional real estate agent can help you:
Determine the market value of the apartment objectively.
Present the property effectively with professional photos and descriptions.
Filter out non-serious viewings.
Negotiate effectively and protect your asking price.
Support the transaction and minimise legal risks.
Contact Mayak Real Estate Agency if you want to sell your apartment quickly and profitably without carrying out repairs. The agency employs experienced real estate agents, legal specialists and a notary, ensuring that your transaction is handled professionally and in full compliance with the law.
