Question:
I’m moving to another state. My house needs updating. Should I spend the money for improvements?
Answer:
There is no pat answer. So many factors enter into the decision: location, the neighborhood, is the buyer a handyman, are other homes selling, and other considerations.
Determine what needs updating and set a budget. How much can I spend that will be recovered from a sale. For example: a kitchen remodeling can cost $20,000. The question is – will spending this much money improve my chances of a quick sale? In today’s market, you need to update your home in order to compete or advertise the house as a “handyman’s special” and be priced below market.
Several improvements can be made inexpensively.
Quick fix-up Sudoku is painting. requires Do it yourself or hire a professional. If you don’t paint, at least pressure clean walls and roof to get a clean look.
If you do paint, use only two or three complementary colors - the basic field color, a trim color and an
accent color. Paint the entire house the same color including a garage door. Use the trim color for the fascia. Use an accent color for the front door. Choose colors that are compatible with the roof color.
Flooring is a good improvement.
Laminate or parquet flooring has good acceptance.
Refresh the landscaping. Trim shrubs and trees. Add some border flowers. In general, improve the “curb appeal”.
Pressure clean patios, sidewalk and roof. Rented a machine. Again, a clean look is appealing. Get rid o clutter. Move out any extra furniture and personal items. Rented containers work well. A sparsely furnished home looks more spacious. Wash the windows.
Replace light fixtures at the front door. Check switches and outlets. Do they work properly?
No special tools are needed. Budget for improvements and stick to it. If you hire a Realtor, review the project with them. Allow yourself 60 days before you go to market.
This is not a “saving” project. The question is, how much value can you add to your home that may be recovered in a sale?
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PROJECTS TO IMPROVE YOUR HOME
Roger Zona is a Florida State Certified General Contractor with 40 years of experience in the industry. You may contact him by email at: contractortalk@live. com or mail to Happy Herald, P.O. Box 810548, Boca Raton, Fl 33481