7 Ways to Increase the Value of Your Home

 

 With housing prices increasing and interest rates remaining relatively low makes now a great time to make home improvements that can help increase the value of your home, especially if you're thinking about selling it. 

These 7 handy tips offer some great ways to get your home market-ready as we enter the peak selling season.

 

1. Create Space

Many buyers today prefer more space. So what is the best solution? Knocking out any non-structural walls, or even removing the kitchen island can really open up a home. Though a kitchen island is an asset, if the kitchen has enough cabinets and counter space, removing the island could help the sales price. Also, be sure to de-clutter the house to show off just how livable your home really is!

 

2. Landscaping

Landscaping is one of the top three investments that has the possibility of bringing the largest return and can change the outlook of the house. If your house has a garden or an area with lots of overgrown trees and shrubs, then those tangled trees can sometimes create obscure views. 

 

Buyers who cannot clearly see what they are getting will most likely move on to another house, so making sure that the landscaping is in order is key. Also, neglected landscaping can give the impression that the house has been neglected as well.

 

3. Let in the light

Improving the lighting can be one of the best ways to increase the value of your home. Use a lamp or other lighting tools to bring warmth and light to the areas of your home that may feel small or appear dark. Make sure the blinds and/or drapes are open when showing your house so potential buyers can see just how much natural light comes in every day.

 

4. Do Not Put Off Maintenance and Care

Before starting any large upgrades, you should consider some basic improvements and maintenance care. A few suggestions may be insulating the attic, repairing any plumbing leaks, replacing any rusty rain gutters, inspecting the furnace as well as the septic system, replacing or repairing leaky windows, installing storm doors, and weeding out the flower beds. These kinds of fixes add value in the long run to the house. Investing in the maintenance and repairs is money-wise and can be crucial for the sale of your home.

 

5. What’s Under Your Feet?

What you are standing on has a value, so you should not neglect the flooring. Many real estate pros recommend spending money on the flooring, but it doesn't have to cost a fortune. Have carpets and rugs cleaned along with touching up or refinishing any worn hardwood. Most home improvement stores will have a discounted/overstock section in the flooring department, which can mean a great deal for you if you need to replace any flooring.

 

6. Easy Bath Upgrades

Spiffing up the kitchen and the bath is a sure way to add value to your home. If your budget doesn't call for a complete remodel, these upgrades are affordable, easy and fast, especially in the bathroom.

 

You can:

7. Neutral Wall Colors

If you plan on selling your house, then you should fix any walls with chipped paint. If there is a need to do more than a touch-up, we suggest you opt for neutral colors. Removing your personal taste and design can be beneficial. Buyers want to visualize their ideas for a space, and a seller can assist by providing a toned-down wall that can serve as a canvas for the many possibilities they envision their house to hold.

 

You can add value to your home in several ways. Understanding what a buyer really wants can be the best way to do that. Try to put yourself in the buyer’s shoes. 

And remember that we can help you finance any home improvements to your current home as well as the purchase of your new home! From home equity lines of credit to mortgage loans of any type, we are here to serve you! To find out more, contact our Mortgage Department at 901-380-7530 or at mortgages@firstsouth.com.