If you're looking to sell your home in the near future, you're probably already looking for ways to get the biggest return on your investment as possible.
Luckily, there are a number of home upgrades that will quickly raise your home value and give your home a competitive edge on the market.
We'll be discussing 8 of the best ways to refresh your home with some light remodeling before listing, but don't forget to also check out our post on 8 things to do before you list your home to sell - with even more ideas that are faster and more affordable.
What To Do Before You Remodel:
Before you start ripping out floors and taking a sledgehammer to your kitchen, take a step back from your home and look at it like someone seeing if for the first time. Start outside and walk all the way in, through and around the backyard, taking notes on anything that stands out to you.
Also, spend some time learning the market. Look at homes in your area on Zillow or Realtor.com and take note on what kind of upgrades the homes have in your target price point. If every home for sale in your neighborhood has updated kitchens and bathrooms, you'll probably want to add these to your list if you're hoping to sell for top dollar.
After you've done this research, consider having a home inspection done - similar to what you'll be doing later - and get their list on what you'll need to fix or improve.
Now that you have your whole list, take a look at these home upgrades that will raise your home value and make it a highly desirable listing!
Home Improvements That Add To Your Home Value:
1. Update Paint:
A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for how your home appears to potential buyers, especially if you have a home with brightly colored paint or dated paint that is showing signs of wear and tear.
When updating paint, stay neutral. White or neutral paint is going to make your home appear newer, larger and more appealing to buyers. Here's a great post with neutral paint color suggestions to consider.
2. Update Flooring:
Flooring is another super noticeable feature in your home. Walk around and look for patches that are worn down or squeaky. If the majority of your flooring is in good shape, make reparations to areas that need it.
But, if you have carpet, tile with discolored grout or other types of dated flooring, you may want to consider an upgrade before listing.
This isn't a waste of money. Flooring has been said to have almost a 100% return on investment. Just be sure to choose something very neutral and durable, particularly if you're looking to attract families.
3. Replace Lighting:
You know those lights you always planned to replace, but didn't? It's time to say goodbye. Or, if you have any lights missing pieces or that just look dark and dated, consider replacing them with newer pieces that will appeal to today's buyer.
Lighting is something that can go out of style very quickly. Luckily, it's quite affordable to replace. Opt for lighting that will not distract from the architectural details in your home and will brighten the space as much as possible.
4. Upgrade Your Windows:
Look at your windows. If they're old, leaky, or in bad condition, you'll get a great return on your investment if you replace them.
Don't just look at your actual windows - consider your window coverings, too. Remove any heavy, dark, or distracting window coverings. While you're at it, toss any broken or discolored blinds, too. You can update with simple, white window coverings or just let the light shine in and make your space look even more spacious.
5. Upgrade Your Kitchen:
This is where upgrades can get a little more pricey. Consider your kitchen. How old or dated are the cabinets, counters, fixtures and appliances? Can you make some minor upgrades without having to gut the entire thing? Or, does it need a full renovation?
A minor kitchen remodel with mid-range finish selections can definitely help you sell your home faster and for a premium. Look at what is selling in your area to determine if this is going to be important to your buyer and to reach your goal asking price.
6. Upgrade Bathrooms:
The kitchen and bathrooms are usually the rooms that buyers spend the most time in. If you're looking for ways to upgrade your home, take a critical eye to all of the bathrooms in your house - starting with the master bathroom.
Similar to the kitchen, look at everything - the look and condition of your tile, counters, cabinets, shower, fixtures, floors and lighting. What upgrades could you make to this space to make it as appealing as possible.
7. Upgrade The Roof:
This is a big one, but the return on your investment is said to be up to 109%! If your roof needs replacing, don't wait for a potential buyer to have an inspection and then tell you what you already know. Get the quotes and have the roof repaired in advance (if possible) and know that you'll get your money back - and then some.
8. Upgrade Curb Appeal:
You may not spend a lot of time in your front yard (or even your backyard), but potential buyers are certainly going to notice them. The front yard is especially important to creating that first impression.
So, walk out to the curb and take a look. What needs work? How could you upgrade your curb appeal? Sometimes some simple landscaping will get the job done.
In other cases, you'll need to do more upgrading to really make the landscaping shine. While you're out there, check out your front door, too. Replacing your front door is said to have a 98% return on investment. Not too shabby!
Selling your home is certainly an undertaking. If you're looking to maximize your investment, these 8 upgrades are a great place to get started. Your home will go from "old" to "sold" in no time!
Also, an excellent realtor in your area can also be a big help. They'll be a market expert already and can tell you what you really need to do to list for your target price.
If you're looking for more top tips for how to sell your home, don't miss our posts on the benefits of home staging and 45 moving tips to keep you organized!
Thanks for reading. Feel free to reach out if you have any real estate questions or are looking for a realtor in the Sacramento area. Give us a call at: 916. 524. 9733.
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