The Best Use of Time (and Money) When It Comes to Renovations

Dan May • August 14, 2021

The Best Use of Time (and Money) When It Comes to Renovations

A man and a woman are sitting on the floor looking at each other.


In the current sellers’ market, many homeowners wonder what, if anything, needs to be remodeled before they list their house. That’s where a trusted real estate professional comes in. They can help you think through today’s market conditions and how they impact what you should – and shouldn’t – renovate before selling.

Here are some considerations a professional will guide you through:


1. With current supply challenges, buyers may be willing to take on projects of their own.


A more balanced market typically sees a 6-month supply of homes for sale. Above that, and we’re in a buyers’ market. Below that, and we’re in a sellers’ market. According to a recent report by the National Association of Realtors (NAR), our current supply of homes for sale, while rising, still remains solidly in sellers’ market territory:


Unsold inventory sits at a 2.6-month supply at the current sales pace, modestly up from May's 2.5-month supply but down from 3.9 months in June 2020.”

So, what’s that mean for you? If you’re a seller trying to decide whether or not to renovate, this is especially important because it’s indicative of buyer behavior. When there aren’t enough homes for sale, buyers may be more willing to purchase a home that doesn’t meet all their needs and renovate it themselves later.


2. Not all renovation projects are equal.


You don’t want to spend time and money on a project that isn’t worth the cost or is too niche design-wise for some homebuyers. According to an article by Renofi.com, basing home updates on what’s trendy right now can be a costly mistake:


The last thing you as a homeowner want to do is center your home design around a passing fad - even worse, one thats design quality won’t last a good while.”

Before making any decisions, talk to your real estate advisor. They have insight into what other sellers are doing before listing their homes and how buyers are reacting to those upgrades. Don’t spend the time and money to be trendy – if your buyer wants to upgrade to the newest fad later, they can.


3. If you’ve already made upgrades this past year, your agent can help spotlight them.


If you have already completed some renovations on your house, you’re not alone. The pandemic kept people at home last year, and during that time, many homeowners completed some home improvement projects. HomeAdvisor’s 2021 State of Home Spending Report found:


35% of households that completed an improvement project undertook some type of interior painting, while 31% completed a bathroom remodel and 26% installed new flooring.”

Let your real estate professional know if you fall in this category. They can highlight any recent upgrades you’ve made in your house’s listing.


Bottom Line

When it comes to renovations, your return-on-investment should be top of mind. Let’s connect today to talk through any upgrades you’ve already made and to find out what you should prioritize before you sell to maximize your house’s potential.


By Dan May December 12, 2025
Whether you’re a long-time Angeleno or planning your next move, the Westside continues to stand out as one of the most desirable regions in Los Angeles. Anchored by Beverlywood, Castle Heights, Cheviot Hills, and nearby pockets, this area offers a rare combination of convenience, community, and long-term value that today’s buyers are actively seeking. Here’s a closer look at why so many people are rediscovering these neighborhoods. ________________________________________ The Rise of “15-Minute LA” Living More than ever, homeowners want to spend less time in the car and more time actually enjoying where they live. That’s why the idea of a “15-minute neighborhood” has become so attractive — places where daily essentials are just a short drive or walk away. Westside neighborhoods like Beverlywood, Castle Heights, and Cheviot Hills deliver precisely that. 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A few favorites that locals talk about: Blueys Market & Café (Pico) – Known for its Australian-style breakfast, fresh pastries, and a relaxed, neighborhood vibe. Palm Grove Social (Carthay Square) – A community café that doubles as a workspace and social hub for remote professionals. Cheviot Hills Recreation Center – Tennis courts, ball fields, walking paths, and open green space make it a go-to spot for families and active lifestyles. Platform LA & Helms Bakery District (Culver City) – Design-forward shops, showrooms, and destination dining that bring a modern edge to the historic Westside. These aren’t just “nice extras” — they’re part of what keeps these communities in demand, even as other parts of the city fluctuate. ________________________________________ The New Westside Buyer Profile Today’s buyers are more intentional and value-driven than they were a few years ago. They’re evaluating neighborhoods not only on price, but on how well the area supports the way they want to live. Common priorities we see from today’s Westside buyers: Move-in ready homes with functional layouts and updated systems. Outdoor living potential, whether that means a yard, patio, or space for entertaining. Energy-efficient upgrades, from newer windows and insulation to solar and EV-ready garages. Proximity to schools, parks, transit, and services, especially for households that want to reduce commute and car time. Westside neighborhoods align well with these priorities, which is why demand has remained strong and competitive—particularly in Beverlywood, Castle Heights, and Cheviot Hills. ________________________________________ Long-Term Value and Market Stability Even when the broader Los Angeles market experiences ups and downs, the Westside has a history of holding its value. These neighborhoods benefit from: Consistently low inventory – There are only so many homes in these pockets, and people tend to stay for a long time. Steady appreciation over time, driven by location, schools, and lifestyle appeal. Deep community roots, with many residents invested in maintaining the character, safety, and livability of their blocks. Homes here are often purchased for the lifestyle — but kept for decades because of the balance they offer between convenience, comfort, and long-term equity. ________________________________________ Why Work with the Dan May Real Estate Team? Buying or selling on the Westside is about more than just price per square foot. It’s about understanding micro-neighborhoods, school boundaries, local traffic patterns, and where buyers are focusing their attention right now. The Dan May Real Estate Team brings: Hyper-local experience in Beverlywood, Castle Heights, Cheviot Hills, and surrounding areas. Strategic pricing and preparation tailored to what Westside buyers are looking for today. Hands-on guidance through every step of the process, from prepping your home to negotiating the best possible terms. ________________________________________ Thinking About Your Next Move on the Westside? Whether you’re considering selling in the next year or just curious about what your home might be worth in the current market, we’re here to help you make informed decisions. Let’s talk about timing, strategy, and what’s possible for you in Beverlywood, Castle Heights, Cheviot Hills, or anywhere on the Westside.
By Dan May December 2, 2025
Whether you're a longtime resident or considering making a move to the Westside, Beverlywood, Castle Heights, and their surrounding neighborhoods offer a vibrant mix of charm, convenience, and community. Here's a closer look at what makes these areas stand out. 🏡 Beverlywood: A Hidden Gem with Timeless Appeal Beverlywood is known for its quiet, tree-lined streets, traditional architecture, and strong sense of community. Local favorites include: • Circle Park: A private green space exclusive to residents — a unique perk that adds to the area’s charm. • Beverlywood Bakery: An institution for over 70 years, serving fresh pastries and Jewish deli classics. • Proximity to Pico-Robertson's vibrant shopping and dining gives Beverlywood walkable appeal, yet it retains a tucked-away feel. 🏙️ Castle Heights: Small-Town Feel with Big City Access Castle Heights blends old LA character with an affordable entry into the Westside market. Why locals love it: • Cheviot Hills Park & Recreation Center: Great for sports, playgrounds, and family events. • Castle Heights Elementary School: Highly regarded and a major draw for families. • Walkability to Metro's Expo Line offers easy commutes to Downtown LA or Santa Monica. 🌆 Nearby Neighborhood Highlights Cheviot Hills : Offers luxury homes, golf course views, and a peaceful vibe just minutes from the city. Crestview & La Cienega Heights: These up-and-coming pockets are gaining popularity for their central location, charming bungalows, and growing dining scene. Faircrest Heights & Reynier Village: Known for their architectural variety and strong community associations, they offer an appealing alternative to more high-profile areas. ________________________________________ Why the Dan May Real Estate Team? With deep roots in these communities, we don’t just sell homes — we help clients find their place in neighborhoods we know and love. Whether you're buying, selling, or just exploring, we’re here with insight, strategy, and local expertise. Thinking of making a move? Let’s talk about what’s possible in Beverlywood, Castle Heights, or anywhere on the Westside. Dan May Dan May Real Estate Team REALTOR®, Broker Associate Mobile: (310) 739-8647 dan@danmayrealestateteam.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-may-a161a55/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/danmayrealestateteam/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DanMayRealEstate
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