Should You Restore or Update Before Selling Your Mid Century Home in San Diego?
Should You Restore or Update Before Selling Your Mid Century Home in San Diego?
If you’re lucky enough to own a Mid Century modern home in San Diego, you may be sitting on one of the region’s most desirable and architecturally significant properties. But when it comes time to sell, the big question many homeowners face is, “Should I restore it to its original glory or update it for today’s market?”
Let’s dive into what makes the most sense, both for your bottom line and for the legacy of your home.
First, Know Your Buyer
San Diego buyers shopping for Mid Century homes tend to fall into one of three categories:
The Preservationists: They want untouched kitchens and bathrooms, original designs that haven’t been modified, vintage light fixtures and door/cabinet hardware.
The Design Enthusiasts: They love the style but want a move-in-ready home with modern amenities. They want the overall feel of the home to be vintage but it doesn’t have to be totally original.
The Casual Buyers: They’re open to Mid Century style but expect updated kitchens, and baths. Also other upgrades like newer flooring, windows and upgraded technology.
Understanding who your likely buyer is, based on neighborhood, price point, and architectural pedigree will help guide your decisions.
What to Restore: Keep the Character
Buyers fall in love with the authentic charm of Mid Century modern homes. Restoring or preserving these features can add serious value:
Clerestory windows
Open beam ceilings
Original built-ins
Terrazzo or poured concrete floors
Vintage fireplaces
Low-pitched rooflines and breezeways
If these elements are intact, highlight them. If they need minor work (like refinishing original cabinetry), it’s often worth the investment. When in doubt, keep it original.
What to Update: Systems, Safety & Subtle Style
While buyers adore vintage charm, most aren’t looking for 1960s plumbing or knob-and-tube wiring. Smart updates that blend into the home’s style include:
Electrical and plumbing upgrades
HVAC systems
Energy-efficient windows (done to match MCM lines)
Updated bathrooms or kitchens that reflect MCM aesthetic
(Think flat-front cabinets, quartz countertops, and stainless or vintage-inspired appliances.)
Avoid over-modernizing, stark white shiplap or farmhouse style finishes can turn off MCM purists. Gray laminate flooring should be illegal.
San Diego Specific Considerations
San Diego’s Modern hotspots, like Fletcher Hills, Pacific Beach, El Cerrito, and Point Loma draw design savvy buyers. In these areas:
Restoration often adds value, especially if the home has architectural significance (Palmer & Krisel, Henry Hester, Lloyd Ruocco, Robert Mosher, Homer Delawie, Sim Bruce Richards, John Mortenson, Kendrick Bangs Kellogg).
Updates should feel architecturally respectful, not trendy.
Consider consulting a local real estate agent who specializes in Mid Century homes to evaluate the market and suggest a plan tailored to your property.
Pro Tip: Blend Both for Maximum Appeal
The sweet spot is often a "restovation" a blend of restoration and thoughtful updating. Keep the original charm where it matters, and modernize just enough to make the home feel fresh, functional, and livable.
Final Thoughts: Honor the Style, Meet the Market
Selling a Mid Century home in San Diego isn’t just a real estate transaction, it’s the transfer of a piece of architectural history. By striking the right balance between restoration and modern updates, you can maximize your sale price while attracting the right buyer who will appreciate your home as much as you have.
Want Expert Guidance?
I specialize in Mid Century modern and vintage homes in San Diego and help sellers make smart choices that protect the integrity of their home while positioning it to sell for top dollar.
Schedule a free consultation to find out what your Mid Century home is worth and whether restoration or updating is the best next move.
