Top Home Improvements to Boost Sale Price in Fairfax, Fairfax County

by Saad Jamil

Thinking of selling your home in Fairfax, Fairfax County, Virginia? Making the right home improvements before listing can significantly boost your sale price and attract more buyers. Fairfax is one of Northern Virginia’s most competitive markets, and well-prepared homes often sell faster and for top dollar.

In this guide, we’ll share the most valuable home improvements to consider, local insights on Fairfax real estate trends, and how you can maximize your equity with our 1.5% Listing Program—a full-service approach designed to help you save thousands.

Sell for 1.5% Program Fairfax

Upgrade the Kitchen

The kitchen is often the heart of the home—and in Fairfax, buyers expect modern, functional spaces. Consider updating countertops, adding stainless steel appliances, and installing energy-efficient lighting. Even smaller changes like a new backsplash or fresh cabinet hardware can go a long way.

Why It Matters in Fairfax: Many buyers in Fairfax, Fairfax County Virginia are young professionals and families moving from DC. They value updated kitchens with open layouts that are ready for entertaining.

Refresh Bathrooms

Bathrooms with modern finishes can make a home stand out. Replacing outdated fixtures, adding new vanities, or upgrading tile can provide a high return on investment. Don’t overlook small touches like framed mirrors or fresh caulking.

Pro Tip: Homes in Fairfax with at least one renovated bathroom often sell faster than those without updates, especially in older communities built in the 1980s and 1990s.

Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions count. Fresh landscaping, a power-washed driveway, and a painted front door can instantly elevate your home’s curb appeal. Consider replacing dated exterior lighting or adding seasonal flowers for an inviting entrance.

Why It Matters in Fairfax: Fairfax neighborhoods are highly competitive. A strong exterior presentation reassures buyers that the home has been well cared for, which can lead to stronger offers.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Adding energy-efficient windows, upgrading insulation, or installing a smart thermostat not only appeals to environmentally conscious buyers but can also lower utility bills—an attractive selling point in Fairfax.

Pro Tip: Buyers in Fairfax, Fairfax County Virginia often look for homes with modern energy upgrades, especially as utility costs rise across Northern Virginia.

Fresh Paint & Flooring

A fresh coat of neutral paint and updated flooring can completely transform your home’s look. Hardwood, luxury vinyl plank, and modern carpet styles are especially popular in Fairfax homes.

Why It Matters in Fairfax: Neutral colors and updated floors appeal to the broadest buyer pool, helping your property feel “move-in ready.”

Save More with Our 1.5% Listing Program

With our 1.5% listing service, Fairfax homeowners keep more equity while still receiving full-service representation. Here’s how the savings compare:

Home Price Traditional 6% Commission Our 1.5% Listing Program* Your Savings
$600,000 $36,000 $9,000 $27,000
$750,000 $45,000 $11,250 $33,750
$900,000 $54,000 $13,500 $40,500
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Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the average cost of selling a home in Fairfax?

Traditionally, sellers in Fairfax pay around 6% in Realtor commissions, which can amount to $36,000 on a $600,000 home. With our 1.5% Listing Program, you can significantly reduce that cost while still getting full-service support.

Which upgrades bring the highest ROI in Fairfax?

Kitchens, bathrooms, and curb appeal improvements generally deliver the best return in Fairfax, Fairfax County Virginia. Energy-efficient features are also becoming increasingly popular with today’s buyers.

How do I know which improvements are worth it?

Not every project pays off equally. The best way is to consult with a local real estate expert who understands Fairfax’s market. We offer free consultations to help you decide where to invest before selling.

“1.5% listing service” refers to the listing-side brokerage fee only; any seller-offered buyer-broker compensation (if any), brokerage/admin fees, and all third-party charges (title/lender/HOA/recording, inspections, warranties, etc.) are separate. Minimums and exclusions may apply; see the listing agreement and the Important Information & Disclosures.

Important Information & Disclosures

Last updated: August 27, 2025

Content on this page is provided for general educational purposes for homeowners in Fairfax, Fairfax County, Virginia and should not be relied upon as legal, tax, accounting, or financial advice. Consult your attorney, CPA, lender, and title company for advice specific to your situation.

  • Estimates Only: Cost figures reflect common scenarios as of August 2025 and may change without notice due to market conditions and third-party fees (title insurance, lender charges, HOA/condo, transfer/recording, inspections, warranties, etc.). No guarantee is made regarding your net proceeds or savings.
  • Brokerage Compensation & 1.5% Listing Service: Commissions are not set by law and are fully negotiable. The “1.5% listing service” refers solely to the listing-side brokerage fee. Any seller-offered buyer-broker compensation (if any), brokerage/admin fees, and all third-party charges are separate. Minimum fees and program exclusions may apply; full details are provided in the written listing agreement.
  • Accuracy & Corrections: Information is provided “as-is” and, while believed accurate, may contain errors or omissions. If you see an error, please contact us for prompt correction.
  • No Agency Created: Viewing this page, contacting us, or submitting a form does not create an agency relationship. Representation begins only upon mutual execution of a written agreement.
  • Fair Housing: We conduct business in accordance with the Fair Housing Act. Equal Housing Opportunity.
  • Advertising: Advertising is provided by Samson Properties, main office Chantilly, VA. Team: The Jamil Brothers Realty Group.
  • Not a Solicitation: Not intended to solicit homeowners currently under an exclusive representation agreement with another broker.

Where market statistics or MLS data are referenced, they are deemed reliable but not guaranteed; availability and terms are subject to change.

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