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New York City Realtor KAREN KOSTIW

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Designing for Resale: What Buyers Value Most

October 26, 2026

Before You Renovate, Ask One Question: Will It Improve Marketability?

 

“Buyers place greater value on functionality, storage, and everyday living than on highly personalized design trends.”

 

I was recently quoted by Giselle DaMier in House Digest’s article, Boomers Can’t Stand These Modern Bathroom Trends.

While the article focuses on bathroom design choices, the broader question for sellers is much more important:

Which improvements actually influence buyer demand and resale value?

One of the most common mistakes I see is investing in highly personalized upgrades that reflect the current owner’s taste rather than future buyers’ needs and expectations.

In today’s market, buyers consistently place value on:

• Functionality
• Storage
• Safety
• Ease of maintenance
• Move-in readiness

The most successful renovations are not always the most expensive. They improve the buyer experience, broaden market appeal, and support stronger pricing.

Through my Concierge Program, powered by Notable, I help sellers evaluate which projects are worth undertaking before listing, coordinate vendors, and develop a preparation strategy designed to maximize marketability and value.

Thinking about selling?

Before spending money on renovations, let’s identify which improvements are likely to improve buyer appeal, marketability, and value. Learn more about my Concierge Program, powered by Notable.

 

Read the House Digest article by Giselle DaMier:

House Digest Article

Learn more about my Concierge Program:

From RealVitalize® to Concierge, powered by Notable

You can also explore additional preparation, renovation, and seller guidance resources on my website:

Karen Kostiw Videos & Resources

Filed Under: In the News Tagged With: #HouseDigest #InTheNews #KarenKostiw #SellerStrategy #ConciergeProgram #LuxuryRealEstate #ManhattanRealEstate #ChristiesRealEstate #HomePreparation #RenovationStrategy, Giselle DaMier, House Digest, Jesse Kent

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"Selling an apartment in the highly competitive NYC market is a challenge. Karen understood our requirements and became our 24/7 person. She guided us through the process of obtaining painting, and floor... continued"
- Joan and Ed
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654 Madison Ave Fl 5
New York NY, 10065


Karen Kostiw
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