When getting ready to sell your home, one of the first questions you’ll probably have is, “What is my home worth?” If the answer isn’t what you hoped for, consider these 10 ways to increase its value.
Do a Kitchen Makeover
The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in any home. If you can only spend one space, this should be it. It can be a deciding factor for many potential homebuyers, as it increases the perceived value of your home overall. If you have outdated appliances, replace them with new, eco-friendly ones instead which can bring an average return of investment of 11 percent. Energy efficiency is what many are looking for today as it’s not only better for the environment, but it makes for lower utility bills. Other things to consider include replacing cabinetry, but if you’re on a tight budget, switching out the hardware and painting them in a neutral cover can give your kitchen a new fresh look.
Update the Lighting
When potential buyers walkthrough, a dark home is an immediate turnoff. Lighting makes a significant difference, not only making rooms look more appealing but more spacious too. This can be done at a relatively inexpensive price too, for example updating your dining room light with a chandelier. In any space, avoid fluorescent lighting that can make a room feel harsh and uncomfortable. Instead, choose softer, incandescent lighting which makes spaces feel more welcoming.
Renovate the Master Bathroom
A beautiful master bathroom can attract the eye of many homebuyers – here, a chandelier can give it a spa-like atmosphere. Update the accessories and fixtures, freshen up the paint and maybe even add a modern vanity.
Make it More High-Tech
Millennial buyers, in particular, are looking for more high-tech homes and it may be surprisingly affordable to add these features. In addition to “smart” appliances, consider programmable thermostats that can help reduce utility costs, smart door locks, lights, and security systems too.
Revamp the Landscaping
Curb appeal is critical, and attractive landscaping throughout your property will instantly increase the value of your home. Be sure that both your front and back yards are well-manicured, without weeds or any dead plants, junk or debris lying around. Keep the lawn mowed and add splashes of color with flowers.
Install a Deck
Installing a deck instantly adds appeal too. You’ll see the biggest increase if you add a deck made up of composite materials, although a good quality wooden deck boosts value too.
Refresh With Paint
One of the most simple things you can do is to paint – just don’t go too bold as you’re likely to turn off some buyers. Your best bet is to go with neutrals. You won’t have to pay a lot for the paint and tools, but you’ll significantly increase the perceived value.
Add a Water Filtration System
Adding a water filtration in your kitchen is inexpensive but it’s sure to attract more buyers as that means no more buying bottled water to get purified water. A “luxury” that pays for itself.
Make it Shine
You only get one first impression to wow potential buyers which means your home should be spotless, the moment someone walks through that door. It’s worth hiring a professional home cleaning service as they’ll be able to get those often overlooked nooks and crannies to make your home sparkle.
And don’t just think about the inside of the property. Curb appeal is as important. When people look at the outside of the property, they will have partially made a decision on whether they would go through with the idea of living here. You have one chance, and if there are major issues that anyone can see with the exterior, such as the roof or the look isn’t quite right, contacting some roof replacement companies to make these fixes or refreshing the exterior can start your relationship with the buyer on the right foot.
Increase Square Footage
If you can increase the square footage that will increase the value more than just about anything else you can do. Consider adding a bathroom, bedroom or finishing a basement.
