With a little effort, you CAN get more when you sell.
If you’re ready to sell your home, it is a good idea to go through each room objectively to see what you can do to boost market value before you list it. You don’t have to shell out thousands of dollars. There are some simple and low cost ways to make your house more appealing to potential buyers. A good way to start, after you make a list of things you think could use improvement, is to talk to your realtor or an objective friend or family member. Sometimes we don’t see things that others do (after all, you live there) and these are the things that buyers may notice right away.
Here are 5 ways you can boost your home’s value that are relatively easy and low in cost:
1. Make space!
Clutter, whether items on shelves and counters or unnecessary furniture, makes the house look smaller and messy. Take some time to clear off countertops in the kitchen and bathroom, organize bookshelves, and put away things that don’t need to be on display.
2. When it comes to color, be neutral.
I know you love that powder blue wall or your “red” room, but potential buyers have their own visions of what looks good and too many colors take away from their personal visions for your home. Get a couple of gallons of white or a hue in the beige family and have a painting party. White is the most neutral color and goes with everything; it also makes rooms look bigger.
3. Spruce up the surroundings.
How does your front entryway look? How about the front and backyard? If your landscaping leaves a lot to be desired, make an investment in some flowers, plants and a new welcome mat. Clear out weeds, fill in any holes and pressure clean that patio. Make sure that your fencing is in good shape and be sure to get on a regular schedule of maintaining the grass.
4. Kick it up in the kitchen!
One of the most important rooms in the house, the kitchen needs to be as up to date as possible. You don’t have to spend thousands on a complete remodel to make your kitchen look more contemporary. New hardware and a fresh coat of paint on the cabinets (think white), can do wonders and won’t cost more than a few hundred dollars. If your appliances are scratched or dented, consider replacing, painting or re-facing them.
5. Take it light.
While you may love your old-fashioned chandelier, it may cause your home to look outdated and thus reduce its market value. Old light fixtures have character, but if you want to boost your market value, it may be time to head to your local home improvement store for some upgrades. Also keep in mind that light and bright rooms are not only more cheerful, they are more appealing to buyers. Lighting can truly set the mood so consider putting slightly higher wattage bulbs in the fixtures.
No matter how old or new your home is, you can boost its market value for little or no cost. Take some time before you list it to ensure that it looks clean, de-cluttered and as up-to-date as possible. When you are ready to sell, we are here to help you through the process and can even help you decide what small changes or updates you can make that will help you sell for a higher price.