Should You Upgrade Appliances Before Selling Your House?

When you’re getting ready to sell your home, your kitchen might be top of mind — especially the appliances. But is it worth spending thousands of dollars on a shiny new fridge or matching stainless steel suite?

The short answer: it depends.

Upgrading your appliances before selling can help attract more buyers — and potentially get a higher offer. But in many cases, a deep clean and a well-priced listing can do just as much.

This guide walks you through the real pros and cons of replacing your appliances before selling. You’ll learn how to assess what matters most to buyers in your market, which upgrades (if any) offer a return, and when you’re better off saving your money.

When to replace appliances before selling: Quick guide

Will new appliances increase your home's value?

Not always — and rarely enough to cover the cost.

The Journal of Light Construction Cost vs Value Report consistently finds that although a minor mid-range kitchen remodel will boost your home's value, you won't recoup the entire upgrade cost, but closer to 96%. And a major upscale kitchen remodel will increase your home's value by just 38% of the upgrade cost.

According to HomeGuide and Angi, you should budget $530 to $3,000 for a new stove (plus $105 to $125 for installation), while a new refrigerator can cost anywhere from $200 to $5,000.

^{Source: HomeGuide and Angi.com}

Unless you’re flipping a property or competing in a luxury market, new appliances might not be the best ROI.

What to consider before replacing your appliances

1. Do the appliances work?

If your appliances are broken, visibly damaged, or a safety issue, you’ll likely need to replace or repair them. Many states require sellers to disclose appliance condition — and non-working appliances can scare off buyers or trigger repair demands during inspection.

If you’re handy, a simple repair may suffice. Otherwise, request quotes from local pros. In many cases, repairs cost less than replacing:

^{Source: Angi.com}

2. How old are the appliances?

Appliances have a shelf life. If yours are past 10–15 years, buyers may see them as a liability — even if they still work. Consider replacing them unless you're selling your house as-is.

^{Source: International Association of Certified Home Inspectors}

3. Do they match?

A kitchen with mixed finishes (e.g., black stove, white fridge, stainless dishwasher) can look dated and disjointed — even if everything works.

Buyers tend to favor cohesive finishes, especially stainless steel or modern matte black. Replacing one or two mismatched appliances can pull your kitchen together for a few thousand dollars — much less than a full renovation.

4. Are they energy-efficient?

ENERGY STAR-rated appliances appeal to budget- and eco-conscious buyers. According to EnergyStar.gov, they can reduce utility bills by up to 20%.

Check your local rebates — many utility companies or state programs offer cash incentives for upgrading to efficient models.

5. Who's your target buyer?

Different buyers care about different things:

• First-time or budget-conscious buyers love move-in-ready homes — clean, working appliances can tip the scale.
• Luxury buyers may plan to gut the kitchen regardless, so upgrades may be wasted.
• Investors care more about structure and ROI than aesthetics.

Talk to a local agent about what your buyers expect and whether your current appliances meet the mark.

Alternatives to replacing your appliances

If you’re not ready to invest in all-new appliances, try these lower-cost fixes:

1. Deep clean and declutter: A spotless kitchen with polished surfaces and empty countertops can feel just as inviting as a newly remodeled one. Clean appliance handles, degrease surfaces, and remove magnets and personal items from the fridge.
2. Try smaller updates: New hardware, a peel-and-stick backsplash, or painted cabinets can refresh the space without the expense of new appliances.
3. Offer a credit: Let buyers choose their own upgrades. Offering a $1,500 appliance allowance or closing cost credit can be cheaper and less risky than replacing appliances yourself.

Final thoughts: Should you upgrade your appliances before selling?

There’s no universal answer — but here’s how you can decide:

• If your appliances are broken, very old, or visibly dated, consider replacing them.
• If they’re clean, match, and work well — don’t fix what isn’t broken.
• When in doubt, consult a local real estate agent who understands buyer expectations in your market.

» LEARN: Should you replace the roof before selling?

Related articles

16 Best Home Improvements to Boost Value (+ 5 to Avoid)

Learn which home renovations actually help you sell your house for more. Find the best home improvements that add value to your listing price.

What Is a Turnkey Home?

What is a turnkey home, is it worth the additional cost, and is it a good choice for you?

Home Warranty: What It Is, How It Works & Alternatives

A home warranty is a service that covers routine repairs in a home. It has a monthly fee and service fee, but it may be expensive compared to alternatives.