If you are getting ready to place your home on the market, it might be a good idea to look at your home through the eyes of a buyer. Look at your home and what do you see? Are there ways to add value to your home with a small investment? Are there rooms that look messy and unkempt? Are there rooms that are not utilized in the best possible way? Does your home look inviting? Would you want to live there?
Probably the first thing people will say to do to add value to your home is add a new coat of paint. New paint gives the home a fresh feel. It is suggested to stick to neutral colors that will be pleasing to most.
Decluttering and organizing what you have is another way to add value. When a potential buyer looks at a neat and orderly home, they can see the potential in where their possessions might go. It will be easier to envision living there. Creating a cozy, peaceful space can make your home desirable to potential buyers.
Cleaning up is also important for the lawn. Make sure weeds are gone, shrubs have been trimmed, and broken pots or toys are thrown away. Fertilize the grass as green grass is always inviting. Placing some plants around the home’s exterior can make the home more attractive. Be sure to add easy to care for plants. While you are considering the exterior of your home, look at the porch and front door. They should be neat and clean. Do they need a paint touch up?
Replacing worn or nasty carpets or rugs can add value to your home. For a small investment it can have a big return. New carpet can transform a room and give that fresh feel. It is also a great idea to clean your rugs too.
It has been said that renovating the bathroom and kitchen are two areas that can definitely add value to your home. This could be something simple like replacing the wallpaper, changing the lighting, or replacing the faucets or toilet. More expensive renovations like updating a tub for a walk-in shower or adding an additional bathroom are also valuable to your home.
In the kitchen there are multiple ways to update and increase home value. Again paint or wallpaper can add a fresh look. Changing the countertops to a stone such as granite and adding a backsplash can make kitchens look modern. Make sure all appliances are in working order and energy efficient if possible. Updating appliances can add value to your home along with decreasing your energy output. Pantries and closets should look neat and orderly.
Lastly, keeping a good record of repairs to your home can add value. Documentation showing when a roof has been replaced or when new HVACs were purchased will be important to a potential home buyer. Having a home that is well cared for and maintained is definitely added value.