Areas Where You May Be Able To Add Value To A Home
Posted by Craig Pilgrim on 25 January 2009
Here’s another post taken from my ‘News You Can Use’ Preferred Client publication.
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Deferred Maintenance Small repairs and the general neglect of a home can make it seem less appealing than it really is. Don’t lose potential buyers – or equity on resale – by deferring maintenance. Instead, perform an inspection 
to eliminate the risk of serious problems, then fix or repair those ‘little things’. Now you will be able to use the great condition of the home as a negotiating tool.
First Impressions More than one home has suffered from a bad first impression. Overgrown shrubs, faded paint, lack of shutters, and stained concrete walkways make any home look tired and dull. Fortunately, improving first impressions are often fast and affordable projects. Landscaping, pressure washing, and a new doorknob quickly turn a tired entrance into an inviting space.
Lights And Appliances Upgrading lights and appliances might be one of the best ways to add value to any home. Not only do they look better, energy-efficient appliances are quieter, easier to operate, and more dependable than older models. Up-to-date lighting fixtures are a cost-effective way to provide a modern appearance without breaking the bank.
Cosmetically Challenged Some homes simply suffer from poor taste. Dated carpets and shocking personalized paint choices may have been the pride and joy of the original owner but generally don’t translate well for the average buyer. Rather than succumbing to the ’shock and awe’ when encountering a cosmetically challenged home, focus on the structure and surroundings instead. Cosmetic fixes often result in the largest ‘bang for the buck’ when it comes to adding value to the price of a home.
Remember, don’t spend money for the sake of spending money. Not all ‘upgrades’ will necessarily net a return for you – some may just get the home to ‘where it belongs’ in order to warrant a list price that reflects fair market value.
[Side bar: The images above are just good before and after photos of a renovated home and are for illustrative purposes only. I am not suggesting you should undertake the same level of renovations as the owners of this home...]
///…CP
