Renovations that can help sell homes
The adage “there’s a lid for every pot” suggests that, even in relation to the real estate market, there is bound to be a buyer for every home on the market. Price is a significant variable in the minds of potential buyers, but there are additional factors that can affect the impression people get of a given home.
Certain home features can tip the scales in favor of sellers. In fact, various renovations can help sell homes more readily. And these renovations need not cost a fortune. Putting a home on the market can be stressful, but these renovations may help it sell fast.
• A fresh coat of paint: Although painting is relatively inexpensive and a job that some do-it-yourselfers can tackle, it is not a task relished by many. Painting is messy, takes time and requires moving furniture. In fact, prepping a room for painting is often the toughest component of any painting job. But fresh coats of paint can create a strong first impression. Choose a neutral color, and get painting. Jennie Norris, chairwoman for the International Association of Home Staging Professionals, said gray is a “safe” color that has been trending in recent years.
• Minor bathroom remodel: Remove dated wall coverings, replace fixtures, consider re-glazing or replacing an old tub, and swap old shower doors for fast fixes in a bathroom. If there is more room in the budget, replacing a tub, tile surround, floor, toilet, sink, vanity and fixtures can cost roughly $10,500, stated HGTV. An owner will recoup an average of $10,700 at resale, making a minor bathroom remodel a potentially worthy investment.
• Redone kitchen: The kitche tends to be the hub of a home. This room gets the most usage and attention of any space, and it is a great place to focus your remodeling attention. The National Association of the Remodeling Industry estimates that homeowners can recover up to 52 percent of the cost of a kitchen upgrade upon selling a home. Buyers want a functional and updated kitchen. Trending features include drawer-style microwaves and dishwashers, commercial ranges, hidden outlets and even wine refrigerators.
• Updated heating and cooling system: Better Homes and Gardens reports that homeowners may be able to recoup 85 percent of the cost of new HVAC systems when they sell their homes. Heating, cooling and ventilation components are vital to maintain. You do not want buyers to be taken aback by an older system, and many millennial buyers are not willing to overlook old mechanical systems.
• Fresh landscaping: A home’s exterior is the first thing buyers will see. If they pull up to a home with inviting landscaping and outdoor areas that are attractive yet functional, they are more likely to be intrigued. Often buyers will equate a home that features an impressive exterior with upkeep inside as well. The American Nursery Landscape Association states that the average homeowner may spend $3,500 for landscaping.