10 Tips to Add Value When Selling Your Home
1. Add Square Footage- Whether you are able to finish your basement or actually add additional square footage, it will benefit your pocketbook. Your demographic and price point will tell you if this is needed as it is the highest cost item on this list. Together, we can quickly run numbers to see a cost/benefit analysis when determining if this will increase your profits. My goal is to sell your home at top value with minimal headache for you.
2. Update your bathrooms- Remodeling a bathroom typically costs anywhere from $5000-$8000 but it can have a huge impact on your ability to sell. Even small updates have a considerable pull with a potential buyer. Do you have a sink that is stained and unable to be cleaned up? Consider updating the vanity (Home Depot $150 and up) and thus creating an entirely new feel. Throw a new set of towels in (Costco $25), a little paint and backsplash. Bam, bathroom transformation complete! On a more serious note, a little color can truly add to your bathroom update. If your feeling like your washroom needs a little TLC, but you can’t decide what or how much to invest, let’s talk.
3. Small Improvements= Big Rewards - Replacing the front door can be key in adding curb appeal of the home and making it stand out to buyers in search of the perfect home. A new entry isn’t in your budget? Opt for painting the door a fresh color; you will be shocked at the impact. Unsure what color of paint to use, let’s look at a few options together to find the perfect fit!
4. Clean Your House Like Never Before- Clean homes always show better for potential buyers. It gives off a sense of pride of ownership and provides the buyer with a tremendous amount of confidence that the house has been well cared for and maintained. Baseboards, windows, and walls are just a few of the critical areas to keep in mind when tackling this project.
5. Curb Appeal - Take the time to clean up your front yard, remove the weeds and ensure the landscape flows throughout the property. Grab an annual flower arrangement or two and add them near your front door. It’s a great way to welcome buyers into your home and fingers crossed it will be their home shortly.
6. Smells SELL - Concerned about the dog scent that greets you when you enter the door? You might love your fur babies, but a potential buyer might not feel the same way. Take extra care to clean the carpets and floors to ensure that the only smell coming their way is the Cinnamon Scentsy lit in the corner. Professional carpet cleaners can be surprisingly inexpensive and worth every dime. Looking for more of a DIY option? King Soopers rents carpet cleaners for under $50.00 that work wonders on a budget.
7. Bring on the Light! – The lighter, the better, especially as we get into these winter months. Concerned an area might feel dim or dreary, consider installing a few can lights to liven up the main living spaces of the home. Another option would be to add a lamp, ensuring they are on during buyer visits. Also remember to keep your blinds and curtains open in all the rooms as you prepare for a showing. Light has a mind-boggling way of making even small spaces feel large!
8. Paint, Paint, and more Paint - Do I need to repeat this? Clean, well-painted walls are a must when looking to maximize your revenue. That fresh coat of paint that took you an afternoon to complete will do wonders for your photos and selling ability. Real estate photos can be deceiving; your goal is to make the home show even better than the pictures. Think light and bright when addressing this item.
9. Shutters - In a well-balanced real estate market you are looking to create interest in your home even by folks driving by. Shutters are a great way to update the look of your home and add some zest. Looking for more of an edgy option? Think about adding a new accent color that makes the home truly pop. Bright colors are in right now, don’t miss out on some extra cash by taking the safe route.
10. Take on one room at a time - Take the time to declutter each area, double check the placement of furniture and accent items. Keep in mind a buyer typically decides whether or not they love the home within the first five minutes. Anything you can do to make that future homeowner feel right at home will maximize your value. Each area of your home should feel roomy, bright and welcoming which allows a buyer to imagine themselves in that space.
A home is a beautiful place to be, a space where it is safe to be yourself, to relax, unwind and simply enjoy life. Whether you are just getting settled in or looking for a new property, I am here to provide any guidance I can. Curious how much equity you have in your home? How the selling process looks? Or which improvements will benefit you most?
Let’s grab a cup of coffee and chat!
-Kathryn