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So you’re ready to list your house for sale, however, you are torn about what home improvements to make before putting your property on the market. This is a common dilemma that many homeowners have faced before you.
Renovating your home could significantly increase its value before selling and make it more attractive to potential buyers. A small renovation or even simple repairs may erase the signs of wear and tear and make a huge difference in the amount you get for selling the space.
However, there are a few things to consider before starting the renovations. You don’t want to spend so much on renovations that your house becomes unrealistically expensive. Finally, remember the exterior is just as important as the interior but you want to be careful not to end up repairing parts of the house that the buyer might not notice.
A potential buyer will likely look at the floor and cracks, holes and permanent stains on the floor may make the house look ‘cheap’ in their eyes. You’ll want to ensure all the floors are repaired before your open house. So, whether the tiles in the bathroom need to be replaced or the main area’s carpet is worn down, remember to fix it before selling to add value. Remember first impressions are important, so make sure your porch or entry are perfect.
Whether a front yard, backyard, courtyard or full-blown garden, you’ll want to spruce up your garden for future buyers. Pull out old plants and maybe even add some new colour. Remember, you’ll need to start a few weeks before the buyers come to give the new plants time to bloom.
Successful realtors know that people don’t only buy a house for how it looks, but also for the experience they could have, living there. Help your potential buyer see what a great life they could build there ensuring the garden is strikingly refreshing to the eye.
You could:
Fixtures are any items bolted to the wall or floor. The lighting fixtures may need a modern revamp to give the house a more lively and sophisticated look. Check the cupboards, wardrobes, kitchen units and plugs to see if any parts are in need of repair.
Most potential buyers pay attention to fittings, so it’s in your interest to make certain that all fittings are in favourable conditions. From curtain rails to carpets, lampshades and mirrors to washing machines, refrigerators and ovens, it is in your best interest to make sure they are sparkling clean and in working condition.
Have a keen eye for detail in the bathroom. Repairing the bathrooms can add great value to the house, even if it’s a simple thing such as a new countertop. Try to aim for mid-range, bathroom fittings to avoid eating into your profits. Polish the tiles of the bathroom to give it an attractive gleam and new look.
It might seem obvious, but a new coat of paint can make all the difference. Consider a feature wall to tie in pops of colour in your home. Research trends in painting to know the best blend of colours to use on your walls. Also be sure of how many coats of paint you should use once you’ve picked your colour pallet.
Storage options are something that many potential buyers are on the lookout for. The more storage spaces in your home, the more appealing it will be to your potential buyers. See where you can add in a few extra shelves or built-in cupboards, especially in the kitchen, bedroom, pantry & laundry area.
Homebuyers love bonding and entertaining guests and visitors in the living room and deck area for a chat session with hot coffee or tea. You can improve your exterior home appearance, like cleaning your deck, with the help of power washing professionals.
A clean and beautiful-looking deck improves your home’s curb appeal and the value of your property.
The kitchen is one of the most used parts of a home, so a lot of home buyers really check this part during a house visit. The looks and feel of your kitchen greatly affect the buying decision of a home buyer.
If you have plans selling your home, one way to have higher returns is to invest in an upgraded kitchen. Did you know that a newly renovated kitchen will definitely help you sell your property faster for more money?
Here are important things to remember when renovating your kitchen before selling it:
Also, don’t spend a thousand dollars on an elegant and expensive countertop without updating the old kitchen cabinets because it looks like you’re just trying to fool your buyers. Never take shortcuts because home buyers are much wiser now.
Remember, devoting too much to home repairs can eat into your profits, so if the house has more serious problems like holes in the walls and a failed electrical system, you might have to ‘Sell As-Is.’ Potential homebuyers are willing to do simple repairs including lighting and painting the walls. However, you will rarely find a buyer who is willing to repair the entire roof – so prioritise areas that are important.
To learn more about home repairs you can make to add value to your home and what tools you’ll need to make them, head to Stonex.
