Home Improvement Tips and Ideas to Sell Your Home Fast!
When selling a home, many homeowners’ first thoughts turn towards home improvements they can make to increase the value of their home, and to make it more appealing to buyers. But where do you start? And what are the most important things to keep in mind when it comes to home improvements? Here are some home improvement tips and ideas to get you started.
Home Improvement Tips
• Keep any home improvements as impersonal as possible. The more personal touches and customizations you have that are tailored specifically to you and your taste, the more buyers you’ll turn away. The simple rule of thumb is: if it’s a symbol of self-expression, it has no place in your home improvement plans.
• Keep local conditions in mind. Many homeowners still think today that a swimming pool is one of the best home improvements you can make. While you will pay top dollar to have one installed, it doesn’t mean buyers will pay top dollar for your home. And in Canada, it’s a home improvement that owners can really only enjoy three months of the year. By the same token, an outdoor deck might be nice, but will it really be worth more than a finished basement that can be used all year round?
• Keep within the character of the neighbourhood. You might like grand columns and think that adding a room onto the back will add to the luxury and grandeur of your home; but if you’re in a neighbourhood that’s full of small bungalows, your home will only be known as the monstrosity that sticks out like a sore thumb.
• Only make invisible changes where you have to. If you’re plumbing or electrical system needs to be redone, there’s not much you can do. It’s a home improvement that has to be done in order to maintain the safety and security of the home – and it’s one that buyers likely won’t care about because they can’t actually see it or benefit from it. When you can avoid invisible changes, such as putting in floor heating, do; and opt for a home improvement that buyers will see and feel as soon as they walk through the door.
• Get help with big projects. Small tasks like repairing small holes in walls and painting can be done yourself quite easily. But for larger projects such as ripping out floors or walls, always hire a professional. The job will get done right the first time, and you’ll save yourself money in the long-run.
Home Renovation Ideas
In the Kitchen
• Replace outdated materials, appliances, and fixtures.
• Remove unnecessary free-standing cabinets or furniture to allow for more floor space.
• Install an island, either featuring electrical elements for cooking or countertop room for eating and preparing food.
• Replace outdated cabinets with solid wood; oak and cherry are the most attractive to buyers. Choose dovetail rather than butt joints if possible, as they tend to last longer.
In the Bathroom
• Replace outdated fixtures and faucets.
• Replace old, damaged tile; or any tile that has mildew spots.
• Install extra storage space, if possible.
• Replace outdated bathtubs, showers and sinks.
• Replace vanities and sinks; pedestal vanities are most popular today, as are double and vessel sinks (sinks that sit on top of the counter.)
In the Basement
• Install carpeting to give the basement that finished, cozy feel.
• Set up living areas for watching television, work stations, or kids’ play areas to make the room look comfortable to live in.
• Install a bathroom, if possible.
• Install a kitchen if it’s in your budget, and possible.
• Create a separate entrance. If you have this along with a bathroom and small kitchen, you have an in-law suite or an income-producing portion of the home – things buyers will love!
These are just a few of the home improvement ideas and tips that you can make to your home when you’re trying to get the most from its sale. Speak with a contractor to decide which ones would be best for you and your home; or just go around your house and see what you would like to improve, and then choose those that will add the most value to your home.