What Home Improvements Are Worth It for Amarillo Sellers in 2026?

Written by Haley Sutter, Amarillo REALTOR®

Short answer:

In 2026, the best updates for Amarillo sellers focus on cost-effective improvements that boost curb appeal, modernize key spaces, and reduce a buyer’s perception of future maintenance.

Why This Matters for Amarillo Sellers in 2026

With inflation affecting labor + material costs, homeowners are asking which improvements will actually pay off before listing.

In Amarillo, buyers care less about flashy upgrades and more about condition, price positioning, and avoiding future expenses. That means strategic improvements—not full remodels—deliver the best return.

⭐ Top Home Improvements Worth Doing Before Selling in 2026

1. Exterior + curb appeal upgrades

Amarillo buyers form quick opinions when they pull up. Simple updates go a long way.

Recommended improvements:

• fresh paint or trim touch-ups

• landscaping refresh + mowing

• modern house numbers

• porch lighting

• gutter + roof cleanup

Why it works:
Wind, dust, and sun exposure fade Amarillo exteriors quickly. A clean, well-maintained look signals pride of ownership and reduces buyer hesitation.

2. Minor kitchen + bathroom updates

Full remodels rarely pay back in our market, but selective upgrades do.

Focus on:

• new fixtures + faucets

• updated cabinet hardware

• neutral backsplashes

• lighting upgrades

• reglazing tubs or countertops

These changes modernize without breaking the bank.

3. Flooring refresh

Buyers in Amarillo overwhelmingly prefer:

• luxury vinyl plank (LVP)

• neutral carpet in bedrooms

• consistent flooring throughout

Replacing old carpet or mismatched surfaces makes the home feel move-in ready.

4. HVAC + system servicing

Strong value signal for Amarillo buyers.

Complete before listing:

• HVAC serviced + report available

• roof checked + repairs documented

• water heater flushed

• electrical + plumbing minor fixes

Why it matters:
In Amarillo’s climate (dust, wind, heat swings), system neglect causes future cost concerns.

5. Neutral interior paint

Still one of the highest ROI improvements nationwide and locally.

Choose:

• warm neutrals

• light tones for aging properties

• full-home refresh only if needed

Avoid bold feature walls in 2026—buyers are trending toward timeless minimalism.

❌ Improvements that Amarillo sellers should skip in 2026

These rarely deliver returns in our market:

🚫 major structural additions
🚫 custom luxury upgrades
🚫 niche flooring choices
🚫 converting garages to living space
🚫 full kitchen/bath gut remodels

Unless required for condition or safety, the cost outweighs the return.

💡 Why Amarillo Is Different Than Big-City Markets

Unlike Austin, Houston, or Dallas:

• Amarillo buyers prioritize practicality, not trends

• lower average price points = smaller ROI margins

• many homes are older + built before efficiency standards

Which means small improvements make a bigger impact.

Key Takeaway for Amarillo Sellers

If your goal is selling in 2026—focus on:
✔ repairs
✔ neutral updates
✔ curb appeal
✔ system readiness

And price realistically for condition instead of chasing ROI from major remodels.

Every home is different, and the right strategy depends on:

• neighborhood comps

• pricing strategy

• buyer expectations at your price point

Thinking of selling in 2026?

I’d be happy to walk your home and tell you exactly:

• which updates matter

• what to skip

• estimated costs vs ROI

• current buyer expectations

No pressure, just honest guidance from someone who knows the Amarillo market inside and out.

— Haley Sutter | Amarillo REALTOR®