How to Give Your Home a Makeover Before Listing It for Sale
Selling your home is a big decision that requires more than the intention to sell. It is also about careful planning and patience. Bankrate cites the data on the “days on the market” provided by the National Association of Realtors. It states that an average home in the US stayed on the market for as many as 34 days as of February 2023.
This means you cannot expect to sell off your property immediately. Expect a longer timeline if your home is not in great shape. When you’re preparing to sell your home, a few simple makeover ideas can make it more appealing to buyers. Eventually, this makes your house sell fast and increases your sales price.
The simple adjustments can boost your property’s attractiveness without costing a fortune. Dedicating some time and effort to the enhancements highlights your home’s best features and prepares for a faster and more profitable sale. The article discusses the various strategies to make your home alluring.
Enhance Curb Appeal
Zillow notes that 65% of homeowners planning to sell take on at least two upgrade projects to prepare for listing. Among the most popular upgrades is landscaping, which boosts the curb appeal. Improving your home’s curb appeal should be a priority.
A newly painted front door can create a memorable impression on first-time visitors. Opt for a vibrant color that enhances your exterior’s appeal. Consider updating the hardware-new knobs and handles can provide your entrance with a refined appearance.
Mow the lawn, trim any overgrown bushes, and add some colorful flowers or potted plants to your outdoor space. Additionally, inspect any visible exterior damage and address it. Fixing siding or repairing cracked walkways improves the appearance and gives buyers confidence that the home is well maintained.
Invest in Interior Painting
A coat of paint may seem like a lot of work to sellers looking to part with their properties. However, this quick and cost-effective upgrade is a wise move if you want to seal the deal quickly.
Choosing neutral colors for interior painting is a good way to attract a broader audience of buyers. Gentle tones like light gray, beige, or warm whites provide a blank canvas. It depersonalizes your space and enables buyers to think of their style in your home.
Concentrate on most- used areas, particularly the kitchen and living room. Remember to consider the ceilings and baseboards as well. Painting these elements can provide a refined and unified look.
Get Kitchen Updates
US News has a list of home upgrades for sellers looking to sell their homes quickly and at the best price. Revamping your kitchen is one of the updates featured on this list. In terms of ROI, a major kitchen renovation project can recoup 31.7% of the cost after selling. However, small updates can be more beneficial.
Give your cabinets a makeover—a fresh coat of paint in a fashionable hue or some stylish new hardware completely changes the appearance. There is no need for a complete renovation. If your appliances are old-fashioned, replace them. Contemporary appliances look appealing and draw in buyers who appreciate efficiency and design.
Consider installing a new backsplash or refreshing the flooring if your budget permits. A stylish backsplash can act as a centerpiece, while updated flooring can refine the look and usability. Even minor changes in the kitchen can make a significant difference. The buyers envision cooking and hosting in a bright, welcoming space.
Implement Lighting Improvements
Upgrading your home’s lighting is another way to give your property a quick makeover and make it sales-worthy. Swap out old light fixtures for modern, stylish choices that align with current trends. This simple change can revitalize a room effortlessly.
Make sure to have sufficient lighting throughout your home. A mix of ambient lighting and task lighting can instantly enhance your space. This combination creates a cozy atmosphere that potential buyers will find appealing.
Opting for energy-efficient lighting fixtures makes your property attractive to eco-conscious homeowners. Residential LEDs, for instance, can lead to considerable savings in electricity bills, notes the Department of Energy. Besides cutting your energy usage by 75%, these bulbs also last decades longer than conventional ones.
Cash Sale: A Viable Alternative
While these makeover ideas sound like quick and easy options, not all homeowners may want to adopt them. You may want to sell quickly when you need cash due to a financial emergency. Similarly, an impending relocation or divorce may not give you time to update your home to make it sale-ready.
Suppose you live in the Bay Area, where more than half the homes take at least a month to sell, notes SiliconValley.com. You may struggle to seal the deal even after making these upgrades. Cash sale is a viable alternative in such situations.
According to John Buys Bay Area Houses, a cash buyer closes the deal quickly and offers a fair price for properties. Moreover, sellers can save on real estate dealer commissions and closing costs. There is no need to spend time, effort, and money on upgrades.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Key Focus Area For Upgrades When Getting Your Home Sale-Ready?
The kitchen is the most crucial area to concentrate on when getting your home ready for sale. Since it is regarded as the heart of the home, buyers’ choices are impacted by it. A clean, clutter-free, and well-organized space gets you full marks. Minor improvements like a fresh coat of paint and hardware upgrades can boost its attractiveness.
How Much Should I Spend On Upgrades Before Selling My Home?
The amount spent on upgrades before selling your home depends on your budget and the local real estate market conditions. You can allot around 1% to 3% of your home’s value for small and quick improvements. Concentrate on high-impact areas such as the kitchen and bathroom, as these typically yield the highest ROI.
Is Selling Your Home For Cash A Wise Move?
Yes, a cash sale can save you from hassle and stress when you want to sell your home quickly. You need not worry about the conventional steps like listing, showing, and staging the property. The decision may be financially viable even if you accept a fair-value offer. You will save on repairs, agent commissions, paperwork, and closing costs.
Giving your home a makeover before listing it for sale is a smart move to draw buyers and increase your selling price. The updates can make your property distinctive. It assists in faster sales and for more money. Thoughtful planning ensures your home makes the first impression and leaves the buyer eager to make an offer. You can also explore the option of cash sale to speed up the process.
