Selling your home can be an emotional experience. You aren’t just selling bricks and drywall. You’re also saying farewell to your comfort zone. Every room has its own set of memories.
Over the years, you customized your home according to your taste. However, now you have to focus on what buyers want. You may love your pink kitchen walls, but they might not be everyone’s cup of tea. Speak to an experienced real estate agent or browse through current interior design magazines. They can give you ideas for renovations that will yield the best return on investment.
Renovated homes stand out. They reflect that the sellers have invested time and money in their home. It also shows they are serious about selling because they are keeping up with the times. By taking these three steps, you can give your home a makeover that will attract buyers and boost its value.
1. Add Eco-Friendly Features
Reducing your home’s carbon footprint goes hand in hand with reducing its electricity and water bills. It’s a win-win situation, and buyers know it.
When you are replacing appliances, opt for energy-efficient options. If there are some areas of your home that are hotter (or colder) than the rest, consider installing a mini split system. They are good for the environment — and utility bills — because they allow you to heat or cool zones individually. You can crank the heat or AC in rooms you’re occupying and lower or raise the thermostat in the ones you aren’t.
Installing solar panels can also increase your home’s value. Make sure buyers know this inexhaustible source of energy can light up the house and charge electric vehicles, too. Upgrading insulation in your walls and installing double-glazed windows can help prevent heat loss in the winter. This can increase your home’s value — and keep you cozy until you sell.
Water conservation features are another way to go green. A sprinkler system with timers or rain sensors is an easy-to-install option that conserves water. If you’re in a state with scant rainfall, a rain barrel could also be an attractive feature for prospective buyers. Not only do such investments save water, but the resulting lush green grass and planting beds improve your property’s curb appeal.
2. Create an Understated Aesthetic
For most folks at least, fancy pillars and elaborate ceilings are not aesthetically pleasing today. Minimalism is trending, and open floor plans can make a world of a difference to the value of your home. For a clean design aesthetic, declutter your spaces. Style and accessorize with a few coordinated and classic pieces.
Many sellers give their home a fresh coat of paint before putting it on sale. This can get rid of grubby finger marks and patch up holes from previously hung artwork. Choose neutral colors and paint sample areas to see how various shades look under different lighting. Worn-out carpeting can be a big turn-off for potential buyers. Check out stain-resistant carpets or other flooring options that are modern and economical.
Upgrading the kitchen and bathrooms may not fit in your pre-move budget. However, adding fresh cabinet hardware and installing new light fixtures are relatively easy and inexpensive ways to give these rooms a facelift. Painting over dated kitchen cabinets is another smart renovation that doesn’t cost a fortune.
3. Implement Smart Tech
Even if you’re not very handy with paint and spackle, you can renovate your home with apps. Smart technology can be a handy tool for decluttering. Instead of having multiple remote controls strewn across the house, occupants can now control everything with their phone. Such apps can save homeowners time and money. You can turn the air conditioning (or heat) on or off from work if you leave in a rush. You can also get the home back to a comfortable temperature before you return from vacation.
Safety and security are every homeowner’s top priority. With smart technology, you can rest assured that you will be alerted to trespassers or burglars. Smart fire and carbon monoxide detectors notify you of dangers by phone even if you are outdoors. Smart security cameras are designed for both indoor and outdoor use and can integrate with lights and locks as well.
Having the infrastructure for smart technology in place makes it easier for buyers to move in. Once you’re ready to move out, reset all smart devices to factory settings so all your data is wiped out. Always review the warranties and support policies to ensure you can transfer devices securely.
Showcasing Your Renovations
If you are selling without an agent, hire a professional photographer. The cost is a drop in the bucket considering how many prospective buyers good photos can reel in. Include in your listing pictures of all the renovations you may have done recently. If you are selling with a broker, make sure they know how to use your smart devices to impress potential buyers. Think like a salesperson, not a homeowner.
Buying and selling real estate are big decisions. Try not to rush such matters. With some savvy renovations, you will find the right buyer at the right time. This way, you can move into your new place with no regrets. Just remember that while you may hand over the keys, the memories you made in your home will remain with you forever.
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