When it comes time to sell your home, you want to make sure that you do everything possible to increase your selling price and that may mean making some quick updates. While some updates are more expensive than others, all of them will help boost your bottom line. In this blog post, we will discuss four home updates that buyers want sellers to make. Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines - you should always consult with one of our real estate agents before making any decisions about what upgrades to make!
One update that buyers always appreciate is new appliances. If your home is outdated in this area, it can be a major turnoff for potential buyers. Even if you don't have the budget to replace all of your appliances, consider doing so for the most important ones - like your stove and fridge. Not all trends will bring you more value though as stainless-steel appliances still reign supreme in the kitchen. Stainless-steel appliances evoke a sleek, modern feel that is also durable and hygienic.
A few things to consider when preparing to update appliances:
How old are your current appliances? According to Houselogic, the average lifespan of a refrigerator is 13 years. If you purchased a new fridge 5 years ago, chances are you don't need to update it unless there is an issue affecting its performance.
Do your appliances have a cohesive look? This is especially relevant in the kitchen, does everything match? Or do you have a stainless-steel fridge and a black stove with a white dishwasher? Style will impress buyers more than anything else so updating appliances to match can benefit you as a seller.
How does your kitchen compare to other kitchens in properties comparable to yours? If you are selling a high-end property, it is likely buyers will be looking for high-end, brand-name appliances such as Sub-Zero, Thermador, or Viking.
A real estate agent can give you an idea of the potential return on investment if you do feel you may indeed need to update appliances.
Another update that can really payoff is a bathroom renovation. This doesn't have to be an expensive project, but it can make a big difference in the eyes of buyers.
If your bathrooms are outdated or in poor condition, consider replacing the fixtures, tile, recaulking the tub, and even the paint job. Here are a few tips to consider when updating the bathroom to add value:
Keep the color palette neutral and bright. Buyers want to be able to visualize their day-to-day life in the space. Keeping things neutral will help them do that.
Make sure the space is well-lit. This can be accomplished by adding additional lighting fixtures, replacing worn fixtures, or simply making sure that the existing ones are clean and in good working order.
If you can afford to, consider replacing the flooring. A fresh, neutral floor is very appealing to buyers.
Storage is key. Buyers want to see that there is ample storage space in the bathroom - especially if it is a small space. Consider adding additional shelves or cabinets if possible.
These are just a few general tips to keep in mind when updating your bathroom. For more specific guidance, be sure to consult with one of our real estate agents or contractors.
If you're looking for a less costly update, consider doing small kitchen upgrades. This could involve anything from painting the cabinets to installing new hardware. Even small changes can make a big difference in the overall appearance of your kitchen, so it's worth considering if you're hoping to boost your home's value.
Whatever upgrades you choose to make, keep them clean and simple. Similar to a bathroom's first impression on a buyer, you want the space to feel clean, modern, and livable.
Finally, don't forget about some of the more technical updates that buyers often appreciate. These include things like updated plumbing, HVAC, and electrical. While these might not be the most exciting updates to make, they can definitely pay off when it comes time to sell your home.
Potential buyers want to see that the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is in good working order. This includes being clean and leak-free. The furnace should also be serviced and have up-to-date filters. The electrical system is another key component of the home. All outlets, light switches, and fixtures should be in good working order. Any exposed wiring should be updated, and any old knob-and-tube wiring should be replaced. Updating your plumbing is another way to ensure your home is in good condition. This includes ensuring that all pipes are properly insulated and free of leaks. The water heater should also be serviced to ensure it is in good working order.
Keep these guidelines in mind as you start planning your home sale, and you'll be sure to maximize your selling price! Consult with a Copia real estate agent if you have any questions or need more specific advice. Thanks for reading!