3 Easy Improvements That Help Sell Homes

Karin Carr, REALTOR®
Published on July 29, 2019

Because of shifts in the real estate market, homeowners who want to sell their properties fast and for the highest possible price may need to take some additional actions. One of the measures that you’ll need to think about taking is finding the correct home renovation projects that will help sell houses.

If this is the case, it is imperative that you do not choose projects based on your preferences or on the advice of others (unless such advice comes from your real estate agent).
Always give priority to repairing things that are broken. When it comes to making improvements to the house, you should only consider those projects that would either increase the property’s worth or make it more aesthetically appealing to potential purchasers.

Feel free to question us about what we’ve learned through working with homebuyers over the years about what features and amenities are most in demand.

In the meantime, let’s examine three projects for home remodeling that are typically do-it-yourself activities and will assist you in selling your home in a timely manner.

1. You had me at the curb

That first impression is critical when it comes to getting people out of their cars, up the walkway, and through the front door of your home. So, let’s get the curb appeal taken care of first.

Start with cleaning and de-cluttering – the same way you will start on the interior. Rake the beds, and remove debris, toys, and anything else that isn’t part of the landscaping.

Get the lawn in shape, prune trees and shrubs, and yank and replace dying ones. A layer of fresh mulch in the planting beds adds the perfect final touch.

How is the rest of the front of the house looking? Clean the gutters, and paint the trim, railings, and door if they need it. By the way, a Zillow study finds that a black front door increases sale price by 2.9 percent.

Finally, add a pop or two of color with potted plants on the front porch, near the door.

3 Easy Improvements That Help Sell Homes

2. Paint is the wonder drug

New paint on the home’s interior walls can transform the appeal. Fresh paint makes the home appear well-cared for and in move-in condition.

To be safe, you may want to choose neutral colors, such as white, off-white, or gray. But, you don’t have to, and the Zillow Paint Color Analysis proves that.

Avoid brick or barn red in the kitchen, as homes with this color scheme in the kitchen sold for more than $2300 less than the list price. Brown dining room? Paint it another color, or get nearly $1700 less than you hope for the home.

Learn about the money-making paint colors at Forbes.com and ApartmentTherapy.com.

3. Concentrate on the kitchens and bathrooms when upgrading

We aren’t recommending major renovations here. But, if either or both of these rooms require basic updates, performing them is critical.

Paint is the first step. Then, check the sinks and faucets. Replacing them isn’t expensive and will give the rooms a contemporary look. Here are a few other little jobs that can update the look of the kitchen and bathroom:

  • Refinish the cabinets
  • Add new knobs and pulls on the cabinets and drawers
  • If you have the budget, consider replacing countertops, if they need it
  • Re-caulk the tub and toilet
  • Ensure that the lighting isn’t outdated
  • Purchase new linens, such as shower curtains, coordinating towels, and rug
  • Choose a few stunning accessory pieces
  • Avoid cluttering the countertops

Most of these upgrades are DIY jobs. The savings offered by doing it yourself helps increase your return on investment when the home sells.

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