My New Blog

Home renovations are holding their value better than home prices right now.  When housing slows down, people stay put and instead renovate their home to make it more enjoyable or livable. 

When sellers renovate, home owners get to enjoy the new additions themselves, as well as make the home more appealing to future buyers.  Recent renovations make buyers' happier, providing a service to them.  When buyers purchase, they don't want to do all that painting, removing, or remodeling and they don't want the added price tag.  They may be willing to make future improvements, but when they purchase, they want to open the door and have everything complete.  It reduces the stress already involved in a major purchase.

Making home improvements can also reduce sellers' stress by limiting the downward negotiating of sales price when buyers point out all the imperfections.  If sellers have done some improvements and "dressed up" their property, the improvements will help sell it at a better price. 

Replacement or repair projects that boost curb appeal, such as new siding, painting and pressure washing, new windows, repairs of cracks in concrete, new shrubbery and landscaping . . . all give the greatest chance of recouping the expense.  Inside the home, kitchens and bathrooms lead the way.  New countertops, cabinets, fixtures, tile or even color all add value and a great look to entice buyers when the competition is tough. 

The weak economy may slow sellers on remodeling, but people's homes are still one of their best, most solid investments.  As long as the renovations do not "overimprove" the home, most likely the money spent will be recovered in the sale. 

Here are a few things everyone can do to improve "curb appeal" which will be the key to making the right first impression:

*    Declutter the yard by removing toys and lawn furniture

*    Cut the grass, trim the shrubs, do the edging

*    Plant fresh flowers to add color

*    Paint doors and exterior with a fresh color

*    Wash windows & screens, pressure wash driveway

Some inexpensive interior upgrades that can make a huge difference to the buyer include:

*    New bed spreads (especially for the master bedroom)

*    New towels that accent the bathroom decor

*    Fresh paint throughout in a neutral color

*    Replacing old lamps or lighting fixtures

*    Keeping everything clean, decluttered and smelling good!

In this highly competitive selling market, "you never get a second chance to make a first impression."  For those wanting to sell in the future, any renovations made, big or small, will only bring a positive result and a good investment.