What are some things that can harm the real estate value of your home?

Buyers have the upper hand when purchasing a home. Sellers need to make the best possible impression to appeal to these picky buyers.

Before you decide to list your home for sale, look at these ways homeowners devalue their homes and consider how to fix these if necessary:

Lack of curb appeal

The first thing any prospective buyer will see is the front of the home. A poorly kept landscape, whether overgrown or non-existent, will turn a buyer off. They may fear the cost of redoing landscaping or be overwhelmed at the thought of it. By planting a few annuals, keeping the grass cut and weeding the flowerbeds regularly you will improve your curb appeal. Front landscaping that is welcoming and has good visual appeal will keep a buyer interested in your home.

Exterior of the house

Chipped or faded paint, dirty windows, broken railings or busted sidewalks will all devalue your home. Just as a buyer will notice the front gardens, they will also notice the disrepair of the outside of your home.

Buyers may wonder if the exterior is so neglected, what has been neglected on the interior. If selling your home is in your future, invest in a fresh coat of paint, wash the windows and repair any issues with your walkways.

Potential buyers will notice the pride you take in your home and will reflect in their offer price.

Outdated kitchens

Kitchens can make or break how buyers will perceive your home. They want to walk in and fall in love with your kitchen. Moms want to be able to envision making cookies with their kids hosting dinner parties. That vision will not work for them if the kitchen is dark, dingy, or outdated.

There are two ways to update a kitchen. A full-blown renovation will update the space to a buyers liking, but at a substantial cost.

The good news is you will reap close to a 90 percent return on investment. A fresh coat of paint on the cabinets, new door pulls and fresh laminate on the counter tops are all options for a small budget.

Frank D’Ostilio, Jr., Broker/Partner, Real Living Wareck D’Ostilio, (203) 641-7072