Regardless of what the real estate industry is doing as a whole, when you sell, you want to get the maximum value out of your home. While you cannot control the housing market, you are in control of maximizing the value of your property. Here are five ways to get more cash out of your home plus a bonus!
1. Get your home inspected
Don’t wait for a prospective buyer to request a home inspection after signing the contract. Before listing your house, hire an inspector to spot any problems. It will cost a few hundred dollars for a home inspection, and you will have time to resolve any issues that may affect the value of your property. You can request a recommendation from your trusted real estate agent.
Only a trained professional home inspector may be able to spot hidden problems that can result in severe damages that will reduce the value of your home. Hidden water leaks, pests, the envelope of the house, and electrical issues should be checked and repaired. Otherwise, if you list your home on the market it could cost you in the end.
2. Paint the Walls
Colour gives a room a fresh and fresh feel, and buyers are willing to pay more for a property that doesn’t require work.
Choose neutral and timeless colours for your walls to appeal to a broader audience. If you have coloured walls, it is a good idea to paint them to enhance the presentation of your home for buyers. There’s an article where you can learn more.
3. Improving Energy Efficiency
Buyers love the idea of saving money in the long run, so they pay more for an energy-efficient home. There are always ways to do this regardless of your budget. Install new equipment that requires less energy to run. One example is replacing old windows with new windows that are double pane to prevent heat loss.
You can request an audit of your home from your local utility company to see where you can make improvements. They will show you the areas that need repair or upgrades so that you can make changes before listing your property.
4. Work on the yard
Landscaping can add value to your home. Begin by cutting or pruning down tall trees and shrubs. Mow your lawn and replace the grass in uneven areas. Add interest by planting flowers, shrubs and other plants.
If you don’t see yourself as a green thumb or a creative person, hire a landscaper to design your outdoor space. You can consult with a landscape professional at a garden centre to choose plants that require little maintenance and improve their placement.
5. Update the Bathroom and Kitchen
A bathroom is also a priority for most buyers hoping for an updated space. Whether you can afford a significant renovation or have the budget to make a few minor changes, these are two areas you need to pay attention to.
Even something as minor as upgrading your cabinet hardware can yield positive results. Or you could look into resurfacing the cabinet doors and repainting them. If you can’t afford to replace your cabinets, buy new doors or paint your existing doors. When working on a budget, focus on the areas that are getting the most attention. This includes lighting, fixtures, counters and cabinets. The painting also gives a new look to the rooms.
6. Bonus – Permanent Holiday Lights
Exterior landscape or house lighting can significantly improve the value of your home, especially when you are going to list your home on the market. A permanent holiday lighting system will add value to your home as it will lighten up the house for any occasion. Prospective buyers will see that they won’t have the hassle of hanging Christmas lights every year. During less light situations, you can turn on your permanent holiday lights to enhance the look of your home and provide better security on your property.
You don’t need to spend a lot of money to add value to your home. Instead, focus on spending wisely what you can.