5 Tips to Raise the Value of Your Home
First off, there’s a difference in the price of your home and the value of your home. The price is the actual cost of the home or the amount your asking for the property. The value of your home is perceived by the potential buyer. Value can be affected by location, condition, features and comparable homes. Attention to detail and quality will increase the home’s value in the eyes of the potential buyer.
1. Vacant homes sell quicker. When a home is empty it’s easier to show, and quicker to move into. If potential buyers see issues with the property like renters in the property, which make showing the property problematic, or loud or messy next door neighbors it could affect the value of the home. Remove any personal pictures and trinkets. When a home is vacant, it’s easier for the potential buyer to imagine themselves and their belongings in the property.
2. Small cosmetic details are important and will add more value than they cost.
- Clean, fresh paint in a neutral color for the inside and outside. If you can’t see your way to refresh the exterior paint, a good power wash and a fresh coat for the trim will go a long way.
- Clean the carpets and floor or lay new floors and carpeting.
- Freshen up your landscaping. Trim and neaten your yards. Plant some bright flowers and put in some new sod, if needed.
3. Make sure your ceilings are painted and no roof leaks show through on the ceilings. That is, of course, after the roof is repaired. Water stains on the ceiling will be extremely obvious and will reduce your homes perceived value.
4. Do a home inspection before you list your property. Identify and repair problems in your home before your home sells. You don’t want to hold up escrow because you’re trying to make last minute repairs. Or even worse, giving the buyers discounts and accommodations for poor property condition or repairs that haven’t been made.
5. If you have the funds and the time, remodel or update the kitchen and bathrooms. These 2 areas have the biggest impact on home buying decisions. But remember don’t spend more money on the renovation than you can recapture in the sales price.
Thinking of selling your house? Give me a call at (760) 737-3767. I have 33 years of experience in selling Oceanside, Carlsbad, Vista, Escondido and San Marcos properties. I’m happy to help you sell your home in this challenging market.
