Selling Features And Upgrades
Expert Article By: Cecilia Sherrard
In most markets today, buyers are more selective and demanding. There's more to choose from and they expect quality and upgrades. You may be facing a dilemma as to "what to fix first" or not having any additional funds for projects. Below are the most important features when it comes to selling your home. I would be happy to walk through your home with you, and point out your home's most important "needed projects" also, give you easy and cheap tips room to room. Contact me
Kitchen - Putting in a new kitchen is always a safe and predictable way to spend money. Today, people like a big kitchen with a lot of workspace. They look for solid surface counters and high-quality flooring, such as wood, laminate, tile or stone. New/modern lighting is also desirable and can completely change the feel of the kitchen. They want newer appliances in working order. It helps to have a window over the sink and being open to another room is quite desirable in today's market. Not only will you add considerably to the value of your home - you will also get a lot of pleasure from it!
Bathrooms - Buyers are looking for master baths that give a little room to roam. A big asset: spa or whirlpool tubs. It's a big selling feature.
Some other features buyers are seeking: separate showers with steam and/or multiple jets, Newer fixtures, double sink, and separate room for the toilet. Modern lighting, storage/linen space, ceiling vent and heat lamp combination.
Master suites/Loft conversions - These offer fantastic value for money, but don't be tempted to squeeze two rooms into a loft space. Instead convert the loft into a master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, a guest bedroom, a teenage bedroom or a family games room. What's important is that you keep it as a large room, giving your home instant 'wow' factor. Buyers are very excited about A well-appointed master suite. The wish list: a luxurious bathroom, lounging areas and walk-in closets, preferably his and hers.
Closets/Storage - Space is a huge selling feature. Beyond the his and her closets, buyers want to see SPACE! Make sure you have removed all unnecessary items and your closets and linen cabinets are almost bare! A buyer WILL open your "Secret hiding places" Garages and attics are also important. As long as they can envision their belongings fitting in YOUR home, they will be satisfied. There's only so much we can control. If you have an older home chances are your closets were designed for the days of "a few garments." Today's new construction allows added space to accommodate our fashion must haves and of course our 10-20 pairs of shoes EACH.
Exteriors - Many people spend thousands improving the inside of their property without giving any thought to the exterior - big mistake! If you've got an old roof and outdated paint, I don't care if you've updated the kitchen, bath and added gold faucets, first impressions are a must and can add as much as 5 percent to 10 percent to the value of the home. Roofs are expensive to replace and a good roof is considered standard equipment in a house. If your roof has problems, expect to take a hit in the price. Before entering the home, a buyer shouldn't see flawed porches, loose handrails, rusty gutters or awnings. They will automatically raise an eyebrow to the rest of the home. If the exterior hasn't been maintained, they will wonder what else they're not seeing.
Windows - People are looking at exposures and windows, It's been a cold winter for most of the country and energy efficiency is very important. We all know about fuel costs...
Insulated windows are always a plus, Typically, they pay for themselves in five years, The cost: for an average 2,600-square-foot home, estimate about $10,000 for new windows. Well-placed skylights are also a good touch to add value.
Decorating - Neutrals always work best - they make rooms appear bigger and brighter. However, we are in danger of going overboard with the minimalist look. Put neutral colors on walls, floor and fittings, but introduce some color through paintings, and soft furnishings to give your home warmth and appeal. Pack away as many personal items as you can such as photos. Allow the potential buyer to view the home as their own with no mental obstructions.
Natural materials - People like natural materials. Ceramic tile, hardwood floors, granite. We've gone back to a real appreciation for historically true materials. And simulated works just as well. The look is very popular.
In floor coverings - especially bathrooms or kitchens - look for ceramic tile or wood rather than linoleum, which can tear and be seen as "Cheap" Buyer's will often overlook an outdated vanity when they see ceramic tile flooring. In the rest of the house, wood or laminate products are a plus over wall-to-wall carpet.
But if you have carpet, it should be a good product and well maintained so that a person doesn't have to walk in and think, 'I'm going to have to spend five grand right off the bat. If possible make room for a "Decorating allowance" for the buyer this way it doesn't hurt your budget up front and comes out of your net proceeds.
Yard/Landscaping - There is not a lot you can do with the size of your yard. However, if you have an unsightly landscaping you need to spend money tidying it up. It will increase the value of your property instantly. Make sure you include a deck or patio area. Smarten up the front appearance and replace any fallen boundary fencing. Remember to keep the yard a focal point just as the interior is. Families will be spending time in the yard as well as the living room. Make landscaping and gardens child/pet friendly if possible.
Study/Den - Nearly 8 out of 10 households now have a computer. This has created an essential need for a study in many homes. Turning an under- stairs cupboard or a section of your finished basement into a study can be a great asset. But make sure it is away from the main living and sleeping areas.
Entertainment systems - Most new homes are now pre-wired for surround sound and broadband points. If you are thinking of having your house re-wired, remember to include this at the same time. It will save you a lot of money in the long term.
Basements - What used to be used only for a coal shoot, work shop, storage, and laundry, is now a living space! People expect a rec room, finished walls and flooring. If your basement is not finished, it should at least be DRY and clutter free. If your whole upstairs is remodeled and modern, but the basement has water problems, THAT'S what the buyer will remember unfortunately. Add extra lighting, clean up what I like to call "Creepy corners." Glass block windows are now standard and expected. Be sure to pay attention to the stairs leading to the basement. Paint, secure hand rails, and make it's as appealing as possible. Again, going back to first impressions.
If you know you've got to have something fixed, fix it Otherwise, people will subtract the cost or not make an offer on the house.
