Selling an apartment in New York City isn’t just about setting the right price—it’s about creating appeal so you stand out in a crowded, competitive market. With high building fees, co‐op restrictions, and discerning buyers, certain improvements deliver much better returns than others. Here are five of the best.

1. Kitchen Refresh / Minor Kitchen Remodel

The kitchen remains one of the top rooms buyers scrutinize. You don’t need a full gut renovation to make a difference. Think:

• Refacing or painting existing cabinets

• Upgrading hardware (handles, knobs)

• Swapping out old appliances for energy-efficient ones

• Replacing worn counters with decent new material

These kinds of upgrades tend to recover a high percentage of their cost in NYC, especially because so many buyers want “move-in-ready.”

2. Bathroom Updates

Likewise, bathrooms are critical. Even modest improvements can make a big perceptual difference:

• New fixtures (faucet, showerhead, lighting)

• Updated tile or re-grouting to repair damage/discoloration

• Replacing dated vanities or mirrors

• Tweaks to make the space feel cleaner, brighter

Minor bathroom remodels often pay off well in NYC. Bigger, luxury upgrades may look nice, but the ROI isn’t always commensurate to the cost.

3. Flooring & Surface Refinishing

Old or worn-out hardwood, laminate, or parquet can drag the look of your whole apartment down. Some of the best returns come from:

• Refinishing existing hardwood floors

• Replacing very worn or damaged floors with mid-quality wood or wood‐look alternatives

• Updating surfaces like countertops or backsplashes that are dated or stained

Buyers in NYC often appreciate original charm (hardwood, pre-war details) so preserving or reviving these surfaces tends to pay off.

4. Improving Layout & Storage

Space is one of the scarcest resources in NYC, so making your apartment feel larger and more functional has a strong return:

• Knock down non-load-bearing walls (if building/co-op rules allow) to open up kitchen/living areas

• Add built-in storage or shelving to maximize usable space

• Improve closet organization

Even if you can’t increase square footage, optimizing layout & storage helps buyers imagine themselves living there.

5. Cosmetic & Finishing Touches: Paint, Lighting, Hardware

These are lower-cost upgrades but—they often move the needle more than you'd expect. Key ideas:

• Fresh neutral paint throughout to make the unit feel clean and larger

• Upgraded lighting fixtures (modern, bright, energy efficient)

• New hardware—doorknobs, drawer pulls, faucets—that match

• Ensuring everything is clean, decluttered, with good staging

These improvements help with first impressions, which are especially crucial in NYC where showings are short and buyers judge quickly.

Bonus Tips to Maximize ROI

• Know your building/co-op rules: Co-ops often limit what you can change (e.g. external windows, structural walls). Always check permits/restrictions first.

• Pick quality, not luxury: Spend where it’s noticeable (kitchen, bathroom), but avoid over-customizing unless your unit is ultra-luxury and the buyer expects it.

• Sell the lifestyle: Buyers want convenience. In‐unit washer/dryer, decent storage, modern kitchen, and bright, open spaces often matter more than expensive finishes.

• Don’t over-renovate: Sometimes a few smart improvements can help you sell faster at a better price than doing everything. The carrying costs (taxes, maintenance, etc.) matter.