Is "Move-In Ready" a Myth? What Homebuyers Wish They Knew

The phrase "move-in ready" conjures images of a seamless transition into a perfect new home. Data confirms the allure, with 78% of homeowners preferring a move-in ready home over a fixer-upper, and 85% willing to pay more for it. But what does "move-in ready" really mean, and what projects do new homeowners most often regret not tackling sooner? We dove into Angi’s latest survey data to find out.

The Essentials: What "Move-In Ready" Truly Means to Buyers

When buyers dream of a turnkey home, they aren't just picturing a new kitchen or a fresh coat of paint. They're thinking about the core systems that keep a home running. Two items top the list of non-negotiables:

• A New or Well-Maintained Roof (77%): This is a top priority, as it ensures structural integrity and protects against costly damage.

• A Fully Functional HVAC System (76%): A reliable heating and cooling system is essential for comfort and peace of mind.

While a new roof or HVAC system is a major expense, buyers also want to know that other critical systems—like plumbing, septic, and electrical wiring—are in good working order. Ensuring these "big ticket" items are up to date is the best way to reduce maintenance costs and avoid major headaches down the road.

The Regret Gap: Projects Homeowners Wish They'd Done

Despite the desire for a hassle-free move, a significant 52% of homeowners regret not tackling more projects before settling in. This regret is even higher for first-time buyers, with 68% wishing they had done more before moving.

So what are the most common areas of regret?

• Bathroom Updates (14%)

• Window and Door Updates (12%)

• Flooring Updates (12%)

Living through a renovation is chaotic, which is why tackling these projects before you move in is so valuable. It makes it easier to manage the mess, keep to a timeline, and prepare for any unexpected issues. If you can, budget for and plan these projects before you close on a home to avoid the stress of living in a construction zone.

The Toughest Projects to Live Through

Some renovations are just more disruptive than others. According to pros, these are the most challenging projects to live through:

• Creating a modern, open-concept floor plan (63%): This is a major structural change that can put your entire home out of commission.

• Installing or updating flooring (56%): While it may seem straightforward, a floor renovation can make certain rooms or even entire levels of your home unusable for days or weeks.

• Installing new HVAC systems (52%): A new HVAC system is a fantastic upgrade, but the installation process can be loud and inconvenient.

If you’re considering any of these projects, it's a great idea to do them while the home is still empty. This will allow the work to be completed more smoothly and efficiently, making your eventual move-in much more enjoyable.

Condition Over Age: The Myth of the "Too Old" Home

The age of a home is often a major concern for buyers. A majority of people (60%) would avoid a home over 100 years old, yet 72% believe a home's age doesn't matter if it has "good bones."

But is there an age at which a home is simply too old to fix? The majority of professionals (54%) say no. They argue that a home's condition and maintenance history are far more important than its chronological age. A well-cared-for home from the 1920s can be a much better investment than a neglected home from the 1990s.

Ultimately, while the allure of a move-in ready home is strong, a deeper understanding of what "ready" truly means and which renovations are worth the effort can lead to a more satisfying homeownership journey. When considering your next home, don’t just look at the aesthetics—think about the projects you might have to take on and whether you’re ready to live through them.