Are you planning to sell your home this year? If so, you’ve probably already started your punch list for making it look irresistible to prospective buyers. Of course, decluttering and depersonalizing your house should be at the top of the list. These two crucial steps make your home look more spacious, and allow would-be buyers to envision themselves in it.
You may also be examining your budget to determine what kinds of updates you can afford. Experts say some renovations help sell a house quickly, while others don’t really pay off. Here are a few things to consider before you invest money into pre-listing upgrades.
The old adage still holds true; updated kitchens sell homes. Some realtors will even go so far as to say you’re not really selling your house, you’re selling your kitchen. Let’s say your kitchen is in serious need of some updates, but you decide not to make any improvements before putting your house on the market. Prospective buyers will take one look at the kitchen, and will start estimating in their heads how much it will cost them to update it. Experts say buyers usually overestimate how much it will cost, so it makes better sense for you to have the renovations done than to face a string of lower offers on your house.
Updated countertops and natural stone accents, such as backsplashes, are some of the most cost-effective ways to give your kitchen a facelift. It’s not necessary to completely gut the kitchen and start over – focus primarily on the work surfaces, cabinet hardware and lighting. Keep countertops and walls neutral to allow for the most flexibility for the home’s next owner.
While realtors say adding another bathroom to your home doesn’t normally lead to a higher selling price, it is important to make sure your existing bathrooms are as enticing as possible. Just as with the kitchen, tile accents, updated lighting and shiny new hardware are the best way to spruce up a bathroom on a budget.
Don’t forget the importance of first impressions. Prospective homebuyers judge your home well before they walk through the door. It’s crucial that the exterior of your home feels welcoming and safe. If your budget permits, consider adding stone walkways, accent walls, or an outdoor perk such as a fire pit or a water feature.
It’s a great time to sell a home, and with some affordable upgrades where they pay off the most, you can sell yours in no time.
