Improving Your Home
Improving the Look of Your Home
In years past, when buyers far outnumbered sellers, high payoffs
made it logical to stage “the perfect home”. But does it make
sense now that the tables are turned? Why make the effort if
the potential reward has now diminished?
Consider this - the market is saturated with sellers, making
buyers more demanding of the appearance of their new home. Most
buyers are turned off by a messy, dirty, tired-looking home,
especially in areas with an abundance of listings. Yes, you
should still make an effort to improve the look of your home
before marketing it. The good news is that you need not break
the bank.
Easy and affordable home improvements.
Clean house! – First impressions are lasting. Most buyers
find it challenging to envision how a house will look when cleaned
up or uncluttered. Clean up and stow away! Not sure what to
stow away? Start by packing up knick-knacks and family photos
(they are distracting) and removing excess pieces of furniture.
Re-arrange - Furniture should be arranged to allow prospective
buyers to easily navigate your home.
Paint and floor coverings– A fresh coat of paint and/or replacing
worn floor coverings can do wonders for a home and usually pay
off. But, even if it you only broke even, it would be worth
the effort if it reduces the time your home is on the market.
Plants - House and outdoor plants add warmth and interest.
One large plant, or large planted pot, is usually preferable
to a lot of little pots.
Curb appeal – Do not forget about your home’s exterior. Cut
the grass, trim the bushes, plant great looking flowers, and
keep the entrance to your home in mint condition! Some buyers
will not even consider a home unless it looks appealing on the
outside.