Sprucing up your house before putting it on the market can fetch you a better price, but there are pitfalls. Some homeowners go all-out to renovate before selling only to find that though they have increased its value a little, it’s not by as much as they spent! Another thing that frequently happens is that a newly-renovated home gets remodeled by the new owner as soon as the purchase is through.
So, what actually adds sufficiently to the value of your home to make it worth doing? Here are realtors’ top tips on getting your house market-ready the smart way.
1. Attract Buyers From The Curb
What’s the first impression potential home buyers get of your home? It’s the view from the street, of course. Anything that looks shabby from the roadside is going to either put them off or encourage them to negotiate for a lower price. Look at things like pathways and paving, and that all-important front door. Mow the lawn and weed the beds. You want your home to look loved and easy for someone else to love too!
2. Fresh Paint
A fresh lick of paint is just the thing to make your house look clean and well-cared-for. It’s also not a huge investment. Although it won’t add that much to your home’s value, it will prevent it from looking desperately in need of some TLC – a cue to buyers that says you might be willing to part with it for less than you really want to. Choose neutral colors for your project even if your preferences tend toward making bold statements.
3. Kitchens Matter
There are two rooms in your house that matter most to prospective buyers, and the first of these is undoubtedly the kitchen. Since you don’t want to fall into the trap of overspending on something the new owners may not even like, stick to freshening up and only repairing or replacing things that are looking tired and worn.
That might mean replacing a countertop or two or installing a new backsplash, but if you don’t go for the most costly materials, it can be surprisingly economical.
4. Bathrooms Are Just As Important
You’ve guessed it! After the kitchen, the bathroom is the next room that will get careful scrutiny from the people who come to view it. First and foremost, it needs to be super clean. Stained grout or bathroom porcelain are absolute no-nos. Replace anything that’s looking down-at-heel. Also consider upgrading the bath or shower as well if they’re particularly old.
Chipped tiles, for example, aren’t going to do you any favours. The impression you want to create is fresh, bright, and clean, so consider tidying away all personal effects when you’re expecting people in for a viewing.
5. Do A Tour As If You Were Seeing It For The First Time
Even when people are buying a home with every intention of revamping it inside and out, creating a good impression increases your chances of getting your asking price. Do a tour of your own home and try looking at it as if you were a complete stranger. Look for anything that stands out as being messy or less-than-well-maintained. Always try to find cost-effective solutions.
A simple tidy-up and declutter can work wonders and doesn’t cost you a cent. When you do spend money, try to keep it to the minimum. Your main goal is to leave buyers feeling that your house is ready to move into as is without spending a fortune in the process. After that, it’s up to them to decide whether they want to make any changes of their own.