When selling your home, you may not be able to predict or control real estate market trends in your area and the state of the economy, but there are some things you can do to increase your home’s value. Indoor and outdoor remodeling, basic home maintenance, and eco-friendly upgrades can make your home much more desirable for buyers. A few hundred dollars of modifications can increase your home’s value by thousands of dollars, so it is worthwhile to take the time and effort to prepare your home for its new owners.

Indoor and Outdoor Remodeling

To make your home more attractive to potential buyers, you need to get inside their heads and think about what they would want in a new home. One thing that is desirable in a new home is an open floor plan with plenty of space. One way you can do this is by knocking out a few walls and making the space between your kitchen and living room more seamless. You can also remove your kitchen island if there is already plenty of cupboard space. If some rooms in your house are carpeted, you may want to consider switching to wood or cork flooring, which is easier to clean and provides the option of a decorative rug to customize the space.

A little work in the front yard goes a long way. Trim your hedges and trees so they don’t block the view of your house. Make sure your front lawn is green and healthy, and pull your weeds. This will create a good first impression for people looking at your home. Don’t forget about your backyard—adding a deck or a sunroom may be the choice that makes buyers pick your house over someone else’s, and be willing to pay more.

Home Maintenance

If you want top-dollar for your home, make sure the essential systems are in working order. If you have an attic, make sure it is insulated. Inspect your plumbing, furnace, windows, and septic system to make sure they are in working order, and arrange any necessary repairs. Those who can afford a nice home don’t want a “fixer-upper,” so at the very least your home should be ready to live in right after someone buys it.

Eco-Friendly Upgrades

One thing that a lot of buyers are looking for is a home that is equipped with environmentally efficient heating and air conditioning systems. Not only are these good for the environment, they also save money on utility bills. You can also get skylights installed to let in more natural light, so the owners of your home won’t have to use so much electricity.

Work with Top Local Realtors: Visit www.BargainAgents.com to save thousands in fees when buying or selling your home.

Article Written By Tony Dosanjh
Questions? Call Me: 415-290-6647
Founder/CEO Bargain Agents Inc.

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