If you raised this question – then the answer is probably “Yes!”. Most Arlington real estate buyers buy with their eyes – if your carpet looks worn out or stained – they will notice and they will triple the replacement costs in their head. Carpet is not that expensive – $2.50 per square foot with installation.
Another reason to have it replaced is to create a clean and fresh 1st impression. Personally I’m not a fan of providing credit to purchasers for the new carpet, because ugly carpet affects the whole feel of the house – not just the floor. Buyers want bright, fresh, move-in ready – old carpet (even with credit) might just steer them right out the door.
Same with paint – if your Arlington house needs paint – get it painted. You don’t have to hire the best painters in DC Metro area and pay the highest dollar. Average paint job is good enough. You have to make sure you are painting your home the right colors, but that’s why you should hire a Realtor who can advise you. You can read about paint colors my stager recommends here.
If your home was built before 2000 you should also consider installing granite counters, upgrading appliances, light fixtures, faucets. Again – no need for the high-end stuff. Home Depot will do just fine. It all has to be in the same family – you can’t mix different finishes for appliances or light fixtures, but again – you don’t need high-end. It just needs to be current. My stager and I work with very reasonable contractors that can get these upgrades completed very quickly and for very reasonable prices. So please call me for a free consult. No obligation – my hope is that we are helpful to you.