Ways To Increase The Value Of Your Home

1. Paint the exterior and/or paint or stain the front and garage doors, especially if they show any weathering. These are the first visuals where a potential buyer focuses. Are your doors metal and if so are they dented?  They may need to be replaced.  A fresh coat of paint can give even a relatively new home a much needed facelift. Select a neutral tone and make sure to look at eaves, gutters and drains that may also need painting.

2. Complete all needed repairs - To maximize a home’s worth, it should be in good condition both inside and out. Don’t wait until there is an offer on the home. Hire an inspector now, and fix any and all problems, such as roof deficiencies, leaky plumbing and electrical concerns.

3. Purchase a home warranty - A buyer, especially a first time buyer, may feel more comfortable if they know there is a home warranty policy.  A transferrable home warranty protection plan can provide added security to the home owner - and buyer - in this regard.

4. Stage your home - Furnishing a home in order to appeal to buyers can go a long way to getting your home sold. I fully advise using a professional stager, but if this option is not within your budget, think about creating an uncluttered space.  You may want to put much of your current furniture in storage and just work with a few pieces in order to create a spacious feel.  Take pictures and look at each room from a buyer’s perspective. 

5. Front yard landscaping - Curb appeal plays a significant role in the eyes of buyers in that first impressions go a long way. - All landscaping beds should be cleaned out and updated for the time of year it is in your region. Place new bedding material down.  Make sure your trees and bushes are trimmed.

6. Create a quick kitchen makeover – If you want the best return on your remodeling dollars, the kitchen is the place to start. Countertops and appliances are the quickest fix, as are faucets, fixtures, door knobs and other easily changed items that can have a large impact on the space.

7. Master bath retreat – This is one area of a home that can add major value.  Upgrade faucets, lighting, mirror, décor etc.  The master bath should be treated as a spa or relaxing space.  You can dress it up with plants, candles and other inexpensive, high impact décor.

8. Replace dated window treatments and light fixtures - There’s nothing more boring than a plain window or old curtains. Dated lighting fixtures can also detract from a home’s attributes.  This is an easy and inexpensive way to give your home a design impact.  If you have the money, look to a professional to ensure the best outcome.

9. Steam clean your carpet….or is it time to replace it?  Rather than steam cleaning old carpet, replace it with neutral-toned carpet with an upgraded pad to make it feel luxurious. Spending the extra money on new carpet will really make your home stand out from the crowd, in sight, feel and even smell.

10. Look at your closets – Organize and declutter your closet.  This will not only enhance the look but will make it appear more spacious.  There are great closet organization systems that will help you organize and add value to your home.

Remember, when looking at homes for sale, most home buyers cannot visualize even simple changes and clean-ups in a house, and the ones who can, will be looking for a reduced price. 

This entry was posted on 23. October 2008 at 18:31 and is filed under Seller Information, Blogroll. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response or trackback from your own site.

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