Is Popcorn Ceiling Removal Worth It for Resale? What Realtors Say

The Buyer’s Perspective: First Impressions Matter

In today’s competitive real estate market, buyers expect clean, modern finishes – even in older homes. While a popcorn ceiling may seem like a minor issue to some, many buyers view it as a red flag that suggests the home hasn’t been updated in years. According to Toronto-based real estate professionals, buyers are more likely to walk away from a property that feels dated, even if the structural elements are sound. Popcorn ceilings often trigger this impression. Flat, smooth ceilings, on the other hand, help a space feel larger, brighter, and cleaner – something especially important in smaller homes or condos. In multiple-offer situations, first impressions can make or break your chances. Something as seemingly insignificant as a textured ceiling could push a buyer toward a more modern-looking home.

What Realtors Say: Popcorn Ceilings Can Affect Offers

Real estate agents across the GTA consistently report that homes with popcorn ceilings are harder to sell and often take longer to move. While not always a dealbreaker, popcorn ceilings are commonly listed as a “con” in feedback after showings. According to local realtors, removing popcorn ceilings before listing can:

• Increase perceived value during viewings
• Help your home stand out from similar listings
• Reduce buyer objections and potential negotiation on price
• Signal recent updates and care, even if other upgrades are minor

Some agents even recommend popcorn ceiling removal as part of their pre-listing home prep strategy, right alongside painting and staging.

What About the ROI?

So, how much does it cost to remove popcorn ceilings, and is it worth it? In most homes, the cost of popcorn ceiling removal ranges from $1.50 to $3.00 per square foot, depending on factors like height, accessibility, and whether the ceiling has been previously painted (paint makes removal harder). For a typical 1,000 sq. ft. home, the job could cost anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000. However, realtors estimate that removing popcorn ceilings can boost resale value by 2–5%, depending on the overall condition of the home. On a $750,000 home, this could mean a return of $15,000 to $37,500—far exceeding the cost of the upgrade.

Condos, Bungalows, and Older Homes: Special Considerations

Popcorn ceiling removal is particularly beneficial in smaller homes and condos, where the textured surface can make ceilings feel lower and spaces feel darker. Removing the texture creates a more open, airy feeling, which is highly desirable to urban buyers and first-time homeowners. In older homes with character, smooth ceilings pair better with modern lighting fixtures, paint colours, and trim styles, creating a more seamless blend of old and new.

The Professional Touch: Why DIY Isn’t Always the Best Route

While some homeowners attempt popcorn ceiling removal themselves, this can lead to uneven results, damage to the drywall, and a bigger mess than expected. Improper removal often leads to:

• Visible gouges or scrapes
• Leftover texture or adhesive residue
• A rough, unpaintable surface
• Unnecessary airborne dust and debris

Professional teams like Patch Dudes offer dust-free removal options and provide complete refinishing services, including skim coating, sanding, and priming, to leave ceilings paint-ready and flawless. This saves time, reduces cleanup, and ensures a professional finish that buyers will notice.

Realtors Agree: Yes, It’s Worth It

While it’s just one of many cosmetic upgrades you could make before listing your home, popcorn ceiling removal stands out as one that offers real value for minimal investment. Buyers notice it, realtors recommend it, and it consistently delivers strong ROI, especially in a competitive market like Toronto.