Getting ready to put your home on the market? You’ll want to net as much money for it as you can. Getting top dollar for your property helps you afford your next home.
If you’re planning to invest in improving your house before you sell, you’re smart. A move-in-ready place snags more interest and usually earns top dollar. However, don’t fall into the trap of making improvements that buyers won’t care about!
Here are five home improvements that buyers will love:
- Stage a Home Office
Cost: Low
Difficulty: Easy
Amid this work-from-home trend, a home office is a big win for buyers. A 2021 survey by HomeLight reported 60% of real estate agents said room for a home office was a top priority for their buyers. Even if you don’t have a room you can convert into an office, is there a space at the end of the hallway, or a corner in the dining room, where you can add a desk, chair, and laptop? Helping buyers envision a home office space will help your property sell faster.
- Create an Outdoor SpaceCost: Low to High
Difficulty: Easy to Involved
The idea of relaxing on a back porch, grilling on a patio, and watching your kids play in a spacious backyard is compelling! That’s why private outdoor areas are high on today’s homebuying lists.
Put some effort into your backyard so buyers can see themselves enjoying it. If your budget’s tight, make the most of what you already have. Mow and weed it neatly, add a table and chairs, and plant some charming flowers. Even small spaces can excite buyers.
If your budget allows, add a larger deck or privacy fence for even more appeal.
- Remove Furniture
Cost: Low
Difficulty: Easy
Over the years, homeowners tend to over-fill their homes. This looks cluttered and outdated. Eyeball your rooms like a buyer would and remove or arrange your furniture to showcase open space. That overstuffed lounge chair and the storage bins squeezed into your foyer have got to go!
- Finish Your Basement
Cost: High
Difficulty: Challenging
More square footage is a top priority for many buyers. If your basement is not finished, think about tackling that project before you put it on the market. HomeAdvisor estimated a 75% return on investment (ROI) from finishing a basement.
- Paint
Cost: Low (DIY) to Medium (professionally painted)
Difficulty: Easy
A fresh coat of paint can make all the difference to the interior of your home. Buy high-quality paint and rollers or hire a professional painting service to handle it for you. If you have bright paint on your walls, this step is especially helpful at making your home more attractive to a wider range of buyers. Choose a neutral like beige or gray, and don’t forget to paint your ceilings!
MIG is in the home loan business and can assist you with your mortgage options, showing you how much your principal, interest, insurance, and taxes (PITI payment) will cost on your new place.
