
If you're planning an upcoming home sale, earning the best possible return is likely your top priority. This is where a little investment and extra work upfront can really go a long way. You'd be surprised at how small changes can really spark buyer demand and can even result in thousands of dollars back in your pocket.
Of course, not all home repairs, fixes, and upgrades generate a return, so prioritizing is key. Our real estate agents have decades of experience, and we know what buyers want to see when touring a home. Here are some fixes we recommend prioritizing before listing your property:
- Paint Your Cabinets
Cabinets can take quite a beating over the years, which can lead to chips, defects, and faded colors. Prior to listing your home, give them a fresh coat of paint to really make them shine. Always remember, the kitchen is one of the most important rooms of the home when it comes to a home sale, so do what you can to make it stand out. Some of the best Suffolk County homes for sale have freshly painted cabinets.
- Add A New Backsplash
While you're in the kitchen, updating your backsplash is another easy and affordable way to give the room a boost. If yours is looking dull or outdated, head over to your local hardware store and pick out a new design that matches your cabinets. Replacing your backsplash is an easy DIY project.
- Paint Your Walls A Neutral Color
That burnt orange office or purple bedroom may have seemed like a good idea at the time, but there is a good chance those bold colors will scare off potential buyers. Neutralizing your wall colors is an important step towards removing any personalization from your home. At the end of the day, you want to give buyers a blank slate. Too much personalization makes it difficult to envision yourself in someone else's space.
- Get Rid Of The Old Carpet
Wall-to-wall carpet was a hit for decades, but not so much today. Many buyers prefer the versatility of hard surfaces. If your carpet is old, gross, full of pet hair, or has a lingering odor, your best bet may be to just remove it. You can leave hardwood exposed or cover it with vinyl flooring.
- Fix Your Leaky Faucets And Replace Your Light Bulbs
Buyers want to move into a home that is in good working order. They don't want to spend their early days fixing the small stuff. If you have a leaky faucet or a non-functioning light bulb, you can rest assured it'll stick out to a buyer during a home tour. Take the time to fix the small stuff prior to listing your home.
- Fix Up Your Walls
Nail holes, discoloration, dents, and scuffs can all give a room a bad look. Fill in any holes, patch-up damaged drywall, and add a fresh coat of paint where needed. Your walls will look good as new.
- Clean Up The Facade
The face of your home plays an important role in attracting buyer attention. Take some extra time to power wash your facade, clean your windows, touch up your landscaping, and add extra lighting where needed. Don't forget your efforts will be on display in your listing photos.
Buyers always want a home that requires as few repairs as possible, so before listing your property, it's always worth taking the time to fix the small stuff. Contact us today for more home-selling tips.