06/10/2016
THE BEST REPAIRS TO MAKE BEFORE SELLING YOUR HOME
When it’s time to sell your home, deciding which last minute home repairs will pay the best dividends can be overwhelming. There is no hard and fast rule, but depending on the time of the year, the location of your home, and the market temperature, following these general guidelines can help with your decision making.
Flooring Fixes
If your home has hardwood floors, congratulations! Most modern buyers prefer hardwood, so it pays to remove carpet if you have hardwood underneath that can be refinished. If your sub-floor is plywood, then replace your current carpeting with new neutral carpeting. For ceramic, tiled flooring, replace any chipped and cracked tiles, and clean/replace the grout.
Ceilings and Walls
Adding a fresh coat of paint to your ceilings and walls not only brightens up your rooms, but can also cover any stains or hairline cracks. Buyers often study ceilings for any signs of a leaky roof, so repainting them will pay off. Always choose neutral colors for the best value.
Wallpaper & Wood Paneling
If you have wallpaper in your home, the solution is simple, get rid of it! Wallpaper is a very personal choice, so make use of a wallpaper steamer to remove it. Wood paneling; however, can be painted. Be sure to use primer, then paint with a neutral, soft color.
Kitchen Improvements
Kitchen remodels return nearly 100%, but the costs are high. Most buyers aren’t interested in paying more for high-end appliances, but mid-range and minor kitchen remodels can result in a large return. Dated cabinets are a major turn-off to buyers, so updating or replacing your kitchen cabinets is a wise place to spend your money. Resurfacing is the least expensive option, but if your cabinets are painted, a new coat of paint and new hardware can do wonders. Replacing leaky faucets and stained sinks are also improvements worth investing in.
Roof
If your home is in need of a new roof, you should replace it. Most buyers will shy away from buying a home if the roof needs to be replaced.
In a nutshell, buyers want to find a well-maintained home that is move-in ready, including updated plumbing, electrical and heating.
