Getting Maximum ROI for Your Remodeling Dollars

When that "For Sale" sign goes up in your back yard, you may be ready to say farewell to your house. You may have already begun packing. So it may seem a little odd to consider remodeling at such a time. Why go through the process of hiring contractors and paying for repairs that you may never enjoy? But when you sell your home, you aren't just saying goodbye to your house. You're hoping to convince someone else to call it home for the first time. Here are the remodeling projects our real estate agents recommend considering when preparing your home for sale:

• Fix It, Don't Forget It 
  Materials in poor condition should be at the top of your list for repairs or replacements. If surfaces are chipped, peeling, or cracked, it doesn't matter if they're in a style that's currently en vogue. Surfaces that show signs of water or mold damage, even if the underlying cause has been addressed, will prompt buyers to be wary of problems beneath. If you have a material that is rare or old, have an expert examine it to determine the best course of action. Some original materials might need to be preserved or restored by specialists.
  
  
• Keeping Up With The Joneses 
  While you may find an architectural rebel for a homebuyer, loads of people follow home trends, which is what makes them trends. If granite countertops are out, replacing them will boost your home's appeal among the buyers who know the market, and have a keen eye for the value of your home. Updating your home can also broaden its appeal overall, as you may eliminate some quirky elements of your home that might not be to everyone's taste. 
  
  
• A Blank Slate 
  Potential homebuyers need to be able to imagine putting their own personal stamp on your house, which is harder with state-of-the-art home theaters, bold murals, or unusual fixtures. Painting walls in neutral pastels and updating kitchen, bath, and lighting fixtures can be a wonderful way to bid a fond farewell to your house and prepare it for its next family. 
  
  
• DI-Why?
  Many repairs or updates can be done by home sellers, such as replacing fixtures or painting. Others should only be attempted by trained and licensed professionals. If you need to make changes that require working with electricity or gas, please consult a professional for the safest approach. The money you spend with them can avoid costly repairs in the future. 

Saying goodbye to your home can be a long process, and making your home a better one for the next family is a beautiful way to thank everyone involved. We'd like to talk with you about the next steps. Contact us today.