real estate series: projects to boost resale value

I often hear "I don't know where to start" when someone mentions they want to sell their home. Everyone knows Realtors handle the contract paperwork and negotiations during a transaction, but there are several things we can help our clients with before a home even hits the market.

Before a listing goes live I always help my clients get it market ready. During our listing appointment where we talk about comparable sales, list price, and the ins and outs of the home selling process, I also like to walk the property and note areas that I can use as focal points for marketing (upgraded kitchen or bath, custom closet, covered patio) as well as areas that need a little TLC (broken door knobs, dead plants in the landscaping, wacky wallpaper, dated appliances). My job is to get my clients the most money for their home and to do that, it should be in tip top shape.

Here are my top recommended projects that can boost your home's resale value:

GET THE CURB APPEAL ON POINT

The curb appeal is a buyer's very first impression of your home! Trim trees, bushes or hedges neatly, replace any dead landscaping, and keep the grass mowed. Consider giving your front door a fresh coat of paint (or at least a cleaning😅) and pressure wash the driveway if needed. Adding potted plants/flowers is an easy way to add a pop of color and boost the welcoming feeling.

NEUTRAL PAINT

Buyers can get turned off when every room is a different color - stick to neutral tones throughout like whites, beiges, or soft grays. Accent walls are OK but try to limit them to only a few areas. Some of the most popular neutral paint colors are: Sherwin-Williams Agreeable Gray and Benjamin Moore’s Revere Pewter.

CONSISTENT FLOORING

Try and stick to one or two types of flooring for a more uniform look. Today, many buyers prefer hardwood floors or premium vinyl flooring, especially in the main living areas. Not all carpeting has to go, but try to limit it to bedrooms and remove any dated carpet, like those in bright colors, as well as any stained or worn carpet.

If replacing the carpet isn't in the budget, hire a professional carpet cleaner to get it looking (and smelling) its best.

LIGHT + BRIGHT KITCHEN

White kitchens still remain the most popular, and it's no wonder why - because they brighten the look of the space. Dated or dark kitchen cabinets can be painted for a quick fix that makes a BIG impact.

If cabinets are dated and painting them isn't an option, consider painting the walls white to try to brighten the space. Another easy and cost effective way to update a kitchen is buy adding or upgrading hardware on the cabinets and drawers.

UPDATED COUNTERTOPS + APPLIANCES

Today's buyers are looking for clean, modern spaces. Since the kitchen is the heart of the home, dated appliances and countertops can turn them off (as well as ring up $$$$ in their minds for the cost to replace). If replacing the countertop in a kitchen or bathroom, it is recommended to go with something light colored such as a gray or white countertop made of granite, marble, or quartz. Butcher block countertops offer a more cost-effective option for the kitchen, while still giving a contemporary feel.

Old, dated appliances should be replaced with stainless steel. (Pro Tip: most buyers prefer gas cooking ranges over electric).

SQUEAKY CLEAN BATHROOMS

All areas of the home should be cleaned, but a deep cleaning of the bathrooms can make a big difference to buyers. Pay attention to tile grout lines, any signs of mildew, and hard water stains. Often a professional cleaner can do the most thorough job getting everything squeaky clean.

DECLUTTER + DEPERSONALIZE

Declutter, then declutter some more. Donate items that you no longer use, get rid of anything that's broken, and try not to cram everything into closets. If a space looks too full and overflowing with "stuff", buyers may think the home lacks storage space for their belongings.

Family photos and personal items make a house feel like home, but it's important that a buyer can picture themselves living there. Make sure to pack these things up. You could consider renting a temporary storage space, as this will not only help your house look more appealing and clutter free, but moving out will be easier if some things are already packed.

Have any specific questions about what projects would help you get the most money for your home? Always feel free to reach out!

Katie Villanueva, Realtor

Texas United Realty

📧: realtorkatiev@gmail.com

📲: 713.269.6849

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