Thinking about selling your home? If so, you’re probably wondering about what you can do to gain top dollar. Do you invest in finishing the basement bathroom? What about building a back deck? Or getting rid of that 80s wallpaper that’s still up in your laundry room? There’s probably a list of things that you’d like to do, but at this point you might be wondering if they’re worth the time, money, and effort.
Budget Extra
Costs will vary depending on where you live, what room you’re updating, and the extent of the renovations. If you’re going that route, make sure that you give yourself some extra time and wiggle room in your budget. Often renovations take longer than originally planned and cost more than expected. So before you start taking down walls, talk to Laura Lisk, Realtor® about which projects will give you the best returns.
In the meantime, here are five ways to freshen up the house without breaking the bank.
1. Go Neutral
A fresh coat of paint goes a long way on a limited budget, just make sure you choose from a palette of cool, neutral tones. Some people find it hard to look past all the red in a room or other vibrant colours, so beige, taupe, grey, or white will help take the focus away from the walls and into the space. These colours also help to brighten up dark rooms and make smaller spaces look larger.
2. Declutter
Have you grown out of your closet and into the spare bedroom’s? Has your garage become a storage container? Things collect over time – we get it. But if your stuff is taking over, it’s time to declutter. To help you decide what should stay and what should go, think about the last time you used the item and why you’re saving it. Then think about how much time it’ll take to pack everything up – only to store it somewhere else. It’s easier to travel light, so get rid of what you can before your house goes on the market. Donating is a feel-good way to share with others. You’ll enjoy the extra breathing room and you’ll be surprised by how much bigger your house looks.
3. Provide a Blank Canvas
You’ve created great memories in your home, and you’ll cherish them wherever you go, but now’s the time to help potential buyers imagine their own good times in this space. As a seller, that means creating a welcoming feel without being too personal. Pack up sentimental items ahead of listing. This will maintain your privacy during showings, while giving buyers a blank canvas to visualize an exciting fresh start.
4. Fix What Needs Fixing
There might be some things that you need to fix, and they might not be so obvious. You can be proactive by getting a home inspection before putting your house on the market, so you can find out what needs repair and what’s cosmetic. This will give you some peace of mind and ensure there are no surprises before negotiations start with a buyer.
5. Boost Curb Appeal
First impressions are everything, right? This goes for houses, too. Create an inviting experience that makes buyers feel like they’re coming home for the first time. Look neat and tidy with fresh-cut grass and pruned shrubs, create warmth with a well-lit entry, and add a splash of colour with some cheerful potters. Curb appeal shows buyers that you love your home – and they will too.
For more tips on how to boost your home’s value, call Laura Lisk, Realtor® at 519-379-2624.
