When selling, the right home improvements can create a synergy that will make your home the most desirable listing on the market in your niche. During viewings, buyers usually don't take the time or are unable to visualize how the home will look after improvements are made. As these upgrades are for potential buyers' benefit, they need to be strategic and deliver mass appeal at a low cost. Items in need of repair are always the first priority. The next thing to consider is how necessary the upgrade is and the resulting desirability versus the cost. Painting the interior of a home in a contemporary, neutral colour that is compatible with flooring is the most cost-effective improvement you can make prior to listing. Two costly repairs that should be completed out of necessity are replacing the roof and windows. Buyers generally do not give full value to these expensive improvements and take them for granted. Here is a list of improvements to consider:
Kitchen
The kitchen is the room where buyers will spend the most time and it receives the most attention during viewings. Kitchen upgrades to consider include:
Cabinets
If the cabinets are in need of upgrading, painting or re-facing may be appropriate solutions. Unless cabinets are damaged, replacement should not be considered as the return on investment is much lower. Don't re-face or paint cabinets if they are already in good condition and just not the latest design trend. If cabinet door hardware is outdated or worn, new handles can add appeal at a reasonable cost. Select hardware that is a popular style and reasonably priced.
Counters
Granite and quartz counters remain strong mass appeal features, however if the existing counters are a tasteful laminate that complements the cabinets and appliances and isn't damaged, upgrading to a stone product isn't likely to provide a satisfactory rate of return for the average-priced home.
Faucet
If the faucet is a basic dual-handle design, installing a reasonably-priced and stylish single-control faucet with a pull out spray outlet will add a sophisticated touch and appeal. Single-control faucets are also more functional for the kitchen.
Lighting
Effective and modern lighting is a good upgrade to consider if the existing lighting is neither. Kitchen lighting should be easy on the eyes both functionally and aesthetically. Rod-mounted and pendant fixtures add variety and functionality.
Appliances
Stainless steel appliances are still preferred by the majority of home buyers. If most appliances are in poor condition, replacing all appliances with stainless steel units should be considered. Try to think whether the appliances would change a buyer's mind about purchasing the home and/or be an obstacle to the sale on a home inspection report.
Flooring
Kitchen floor area is typically not large and upgrading to floor tile can improve the look significantly at a modest cost.
Bathrooms
Bathrooms are also one of the most scrutinized areas during a home viewing. Upscale bathrooms can add a lot of appeal and providing that the fixtures are in good condition, replacing floor covering and tilework are generally economical projects that can be carried out by many homeowners.
Floors
As bathrooms are small, replacing old or discoloured linoleum with a smart floor tile adds a sense of luxury for a modest price. This is most effective when the same tile is used in all bathrooms.
Bath Area
If wall tiles around the bath are dated or if the grout is discoloured, replacing them with a modern tile will change the appearance of the bathroom. Take care not to damage the bath when removing the old tiles and water-resistant wallboard. Upgrade the bath faucets if necessary.
Shower Head
A rain-style shower head provides a sense of luxury. These can be installed in less than an hour and usually cost under $100.
Entrance
Lighting
The entrance foyer light fixture is one of the first things that potential buyers will see. If the ceiling height can accommodate a hanging fixture, it will add a spacious feeling to the entranceway.
Door
Entry doors set the mood for potential buyers entering your home. Steel doors with glass inserts often provide a return on investment greater than 100 percent. They can generally be purchased for less than $500 at the major home improvement stores. If there is space and the home is being sold in the summer, a tall planter next to the welcome mat is another feature which will appeal to buyers.
Living Rooms
Aside from painting the interior walls, upgrading the floor coverings of your home can produce cost-effective results, providing that the existing carpeting is worn and an upgrade is justified. If the layout of your home is suitable, consider replacing carpeting in the living area with a modestly priced hardwood that will appeal to most buyers.
Garage
Washing the floor and painting it with a garage floor paint improves the appearance of the garage. If the garage door is in poor condition, replacing it with a door with design details can significantly boost curb appeal.
Smart Features
Lighting, HVAC, security systems and door locks that can be controlled through a smart phone will impress many homebuyers. Installing a smart door lock is one of the most practical improvements, especially for families with young children who tend to lose their keys.
Landscaping
Landscaping has a major impact on curb appeal and generally yields returns over 100 percent.
