Are you looking for ways to increase the value of your home, without spending a lot of time and money?
Whether you want to give your home a new look or you’re trying to increase its value before selling, there are ways you can enhance your home without breaking the bank! As a mortgage loan officer, I’ve seen people increase the value of their homes significantly by changing just a few small things. I’ve assembled a list of five things you can do now. So when you decide to sell or refinance you’ll see a better value—which can mean more cash in your pocket!
1. Paint kitchen cabinets.
The color and style of your kitchen cabinets can make the room look dated. Since the kitchen is usually the center of the home, it’s a great place to start making small changes. Painting your cabinets is an easier task than it might seem. The experts at your local hardware or paint store can give tell you how to do it right. Try to choose a color that is neutral, but don’t shy away from making a splash in one area. If your kitchen has an island you might choose a different or contrasting color there. Just don’t get too crazy if you plan on selling your home soon. Not everyone will appreciate a kitchen island in lime green or magenta. Take a look at decorating websites or magazines to see what the trends are. Bonus tip: swap out the door and drawer pulls. Sometimes replacing something as simple as new hardware can really make a difference.
2. Update the backsplash.
Updating your existing backsplash tile in the kitchen, or adding a new backsplash is a way to transform the look, with minimal expense. Again, you’ll want to choose something that isn’t too wild in color or pattern. But it is an opportunity to add a little visual variety to the room. This too, is a job that could be completed as a DIY (do it yourself). But if you aren’t comfortable with the tools or the task, you are better off hiring a handyman or contractor to get it done right the first time.
3. Clean or replace old and worn-out flooring.
Nothing shows the wear and tear in a home more than dirty matted carpeting, vinyl flooring with curled or pealing seams, or scratched or stained wood and laminate. If your carpeting isn’t very old it may just need a good cleaning. If it is fairly worn, replacing it can often get you a good return on the investment. Homebuyers generally like new flooring in a home, free from the cooking or pet odors of the previous owners. Vinyl flooring can be replaced with a minimal budget, or you could try an upgraded look with a laminate. Discussing your options and budget with flooring experts can help you decide what is best.
4. Refresh your entryway.
The front door and porch are a potential buyer’s first impression of your home. First, take some time to spruce it up a bit by clearing any cobwebs and dirt. Then consider quick and simple ideas such as a new welcome mat or a flower pot with colorful blooms. Finally, step back and look at what needs updating or replacing. Should you replace the porch light? Repaint the faded door? Replace the doorknob and lockset? Often you can refresh your entry with as little as $50.
5. Depersonalize your home.
This is one update most ever realtor I’ve spoken to swears to when selling a home. Get a head start on packing by putting away your personal photos. When buyers look at a home they want to picture themselves in the home. It can be hard to envision one’s own family in a home when there is a family portrait over the fireplace or photos of the family vacation hanging on the walls. Don’t forget to remove the kids’ self-portraits from the refrigerator door. A clean and clutter-free home is what appeals most to buyers.
If you are considering a mortgage refinance or learning about the pre-approval process when buying a new home, contact me today.
