The spring housing market is popular with buyers and sellers alike, so if you’ve listed your home recently, hopefully you’re getting plenty of bites. But if you’re not, here are some last-minute updates that are worth the cost and can help you sell your house faster:
1.) Replace old carpeting
Putting in new carpeting or revealing original wood floors below can really increase the move-in appeal of your home. If a potential buyer sees that they don’t have to replace old or dirty carpets, it makes it easier for them to imagine moving right in and getting settled. This is one expense that can help you get your house off the market quicker, and potentially at a higher cost.
2.) Focus on basic home maintenance
For most buyers, the bones of the house are what truly matter. According to a study by Remodeling magazine, some of the top renovation costs recouped include fiberglass attic insulation (116.9%), manufactured stone veneer (92.9%), garage door replacement (91.5%) and steel entry door replacement (91.1%). Fix anything that isn’t working properly and you avoid the risk of buyers pulling out because of a bad home inspection.
3.) Update kitchens and bathrooms
If your roof isn’t leaking and nothing major is malfunctioning, you can also focus on kitchens and bathrooms to sell your house quicker. According to Remodeling’s study, minor kitchen remodels came in at the number five highest recoup on investment at 83.1%. These are the rooms where people spend significant time in their homes, and they are likely the first areas they’ll think of remodeling when they move in. Well-kept or updated kitchens and baths scream “move-in ready” and make your house look more expensive, so if you’ve got the funds for it, it can certainly help your house be more appealing to potential buyers.
4.) Paint
This is a proportionally cheap project that can make a massive difference, especially if you’re fond of color. If your house has a rainbow array of wall colors, it’s time to break out the primer; buyers love neutrals. But don’t think that means every wall should be painted white or light beige. Look for updated colors that match current trends, and your house will stand out to buyers. Earth tones are particularly safe because they are soothing and work with many different styles and color palettes. Shades of brown, green and blue are great picks, and coffee-toned paints are especially pleasing to the eye.
5.) Don’t forget about curb appeal
The way your house looks when a buyer first pulls up to it can set the stage for an advantageous sell. Power washing can be an incredible transformation that is worth the investment and time. Refresh the paint if it needs it, trim unruly shrubs or bushes and plant flowers. Look critically at your home from a buyer’s eyes and make necessary adjustments.
6.) Declutter
Clear out as much as you possibly can, and make your home look clean and inviting. If need be, you can rent a small storage unit until your house is sold. That also means you’ll have a jump on packing away decorative or unnecessary items before moving day.
7.) Space out your updates
Finally, if you end up taking your house off the market or are planning to sell in a couple years, take the time now to make changes here and there. It will be easier on your bank account, allow you to enjoy the renovations for awhile, and will help you sell your house faster when the time comes.
Read more posts from our home series here: Preparing your finances to buy a home, what to consider when buying your first home and what you need to know about home equity loans.