4 Renovation Tips to Consider Before Selling Your Home

How far do you go when it is time to put your house on the market? Will you get your money back if you renovate?  Don't get sucked into spending thousands of dollars on all those projects you wanted to do years ago. You are moving, and the next occupant may want something else. What you do need to do is put a fresh coat of paint on all those cracks in the ceiling and declutter!!

1. DO Repair Major and Obvious Issues

This is a tricky one. I currently have my own house on the market. I have been powerwashing, touching up peeling paint, cleaning every nook and cranny, and I fixed the rotting steps down to the dock…money well spent. But on the flip side, the house will need a new roof in a few years. I’m not going to pay for it now, but I will negotiate with the buyer about removing the cost of replacing it from the final bid. 

If you have major renovations, get some estimates— they are free! Have them ready to present to the prospective buyer as a part of negotiations if you don’t have the funds to do them yourself. Be prepared, and pick your battles… a home that comes with a big to-do list is a big turn-off for many buyers.

2. DON'T Build Home Additions

This is not the time to expand your home— your prospective buyer may have a completely different vision. Although creating a more livable space in a home sounds desirable, it doesn’t actually have the payout one would expect. Funds are better spent modernizing and maximizing the current space vs. adding more.

3. DO Update Outdated Finishes and Fixtures

Quick and easy is what you want when updating your home for the next occupant. Changing out hardware knobs and painting your kitchen white seem to be the most successful tactics when preparing for market. Another easy trick is to switch out your old light bulbs for brighter ones. And please take down all that heavy drapery— bring the sunshine in!

4. DON'T Forget to Stage Your Home to Sell

Less is more when getting ready to put your house on the market. Declutter…then declutter again! Be sure to remove family photos and personal trinkets. You want your potential buyer to see themselves in the home, not how you live in it. Hiring a designer or stager is important to help you step away from what is a very personal space.

Ready to attract your dream buyer to the signing table? Contact us and let's get started.

Until next time,
Lori