13 Simple Ways to Add Value to Your Home Before Selling

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Selling your home is kind of like dating: you want to show your best self, make a good impression and hopefully, close the deal. Preparing your house for potential buyers is more than just dusting the furniture, just as getting ready for a big night out involves more than just looking in the mirror.

Today’s buyers can be savvy and well informed, so providing added value to your house prior to listing it for sale can be the difference between success and failure. Even if you’re just trying to make a good first impression or highlight key features, these small changes can help increase your home’s value and attract serious buyers.

Freshen up the Paint

Like a facelift for your home, a fresh coat of paint will give your home a brand new appearance. A wide range of buyers tend to be attracted to neutral colors, usually light grays, creams, or soft blues. Not only does paint make a room look brighter, it also makes spaces feel larger and more modern. It’s also one of the least expensive ways to update your home’s interior.

Declutter and Depersonalize

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It’s less is more when you stage a home. Eliminate personal items, too much furniture and clutter to leave behind a clean, inviting space where buyers can imagine themselves living there. This can be a difficult part, as you’re giving up your personal items, but you’re trying to make a clean slate for potential buyers.

Improve Lighting

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Dark dingy spaces are not the thing of dreams. Replace old light bulbs with energy – efficient ones, add floor lamps to dark corners, or install new fixtures in the kitchen and living room. The right lighting makes rooms seem bigger, warmer, friendlier.

Deep Clean the Carpets

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Stained old carpets might not be something you’ve noticed for a while, but to a buyer, they can be a big turn off. Even replacing worn out carpet with new, neutral colored flooring can make a huge difference. A clean floor throughout the house makes the whole place feel fresh and looked after.

Stage the Furniture

You don’t need to hire a pro stager, but moving your furniture can make a big difference. Make sure the living room has cozy conversation areas, put the furniture in the living room to show off the home’s best features and make sure every room has a clear purpose. A home staged well can feel more functional and livable.

Enhance Outdoor Spaces

Outdoor spaces are a big selling point, whether it’s a small balcony or a sprawling backyard. If you have a space where a fire pit, some comfortable seating, or some string lights could be added, you have an inviting area. If you do have a garden, make sure it’s well tended, buyers love outdoor spaces that feel like an extension of the home.

Update the Kitchen

Often the kitchen is the heart of the home, and buyers pay more attention to it than any other space. A full remodel isn’t necessary to impress—new cabinet handles, a stylish backsplash or modern light fixtures can breathe new life into the room. Swapping out old appliances for stainless steel can even make a difference.

Spruce up the Bathrooms

Bathrooms are another big selling point and a few quick updates can have a big impact, as this The Property Centre artice attests. Updating the space can be as simple as replacing old faucets, regrouting tile, or putting in a new mirror. If that’s in the budget, upgrade the vanity or add new fixtures. Bathrooms that feel modern and spa like are loved by buyers.

Replace Old Hardware

Door handles, cabinet knobs and light switch plates are small details that can make a surprisingly big difference in how updated your home looks. One of the quickest and cheapest ways to refresh your space is to swap out old, worn hardware for more modern options.

Fix Small Repairs

A leaky faucet, squeaky door or cracked tile may not seem like much, but buyers do notice. Make sure that any small repairs you have on your to do list get done. Buyers just feel better buying a home that has been well maintained and cared for, and they will feel more inclined to make an offer.

Add Smart Home Features

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Having a few smart home features is more important than ever, as technology is more widespread than ever. Installing a smart thermostat, keyless entry or even a few security cameras can make your home feel modern without breaking the bank.

Boost Curb Appeal

According to Landmark Landscape. Inc, your curb appeal is your home’s opportunity to make a first impression, and first impressions last. Just a few simple things like trimming overgrown hedges, planting a couple of pretty flowers and even a fresh coat of paint on the front door can work wonders for the look of the outside.

Make the Entryway Welcoming

The entryway is the first impression of the home. The new doormat, or a fancy coat rack, or even some art on the walls, will add a lovely welcoming touch. Even small touches like a little bench or just a mirror can make a space warm and inviting and give buyers a great first impression of the property.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.