Selling features / Upgrades
In Ohio's market today, buyers are more selective and demanding.
There's more to choose from and they expect quality and
upgrades. You may be facing a dilemma as to "what to fix first"
or not having any additional funds for projects. Below are the
most important features when it comes to selling your home.
Kitchen - Putting in a new kitchen is always a safe and
predictable way to spend money. Today, people like a big kitchen
with a lot of workspace. They look for solid surface counters
and high-quality flooring, such as wood, laminate, tile or
stone. New/modern lighting is also desirable and can completely
change the feel of the kitchen. They want newer appliances in
working order. It helps to have a window over the sink and being
open to another room is quite desirable in today's market. Not
only will you add considerably to the value of your home - you
will also get a lot of pleasure from it!
Bathrooms - Buyers are looking for master baths that give a
little room to roam. A big asset: spa or whirlpool tubs. It's a
big selling feature. Some other features buyers are seeking:
separate showers with steam and/or multiple jets, Newer
fixtures, double sink, and separate room for the toilet. Modern
lighting, storage/linen space, ceiling vent and heat lamp
combination.
Master suites/Loft conversions - These offer fantastic value for
money, but don't be tempted to squeeze two rooms into a loft
space. Instead convert the loft into a master bedroom with
en-suite bathroom, a guest bedroom, a teenage bedroom or a
family games room. What's important is that you keep it as a
large room, giving your home instant 'wow' factor. Buyers are
very excited about A well-appointed master suite. The wish list:
a luxurious bathroom, lounging areas and walk-in closets,
preferably his and hers.
Closets/Storage - Space is a huge selling feature. Beyond the
his and her closets, buyers want to see SPACE! Make sure you
have removed all unnecessary items and your closets and linen
cabinets are almost bare! A buyer WILL open your "Secret hiding
places" Garages and attics are also important. As long as they
can envision their belongings fitting in YOUR home, they will be
satisfied. There's only so much we can control. If you have an
older home chances are your closets were designed for the days
of "a few garments." Today's new construction allows added space
to accommodate our fashion must haves and of course our 10-20
pairs of shoes EACH.
Exteriors - Many people spend thousands improving the inside of
their property without giving any thought to the exterior - big
mistake! If you've got an old roof and outdated paint, I don't
care if you've updated the kitchen, bath and added gold faucets,
first impressions are a must and can add as much as 5 percent to
10 percent to the value of the home. Roofs are expensive to
replace and a good roof is considered standard equipment in a
house. If your roof has problems, expect to take a hit in the
price. Before entering the home, a buyer shouldn't see flawed
porches, loose handrails, rusty gutters or awnings. They will
automatically raise an eyebrow to the rest of the home. If the
exterior hasn't been maintained, they will wonder what else
they're not seeing.
Windows - People are looking at exposures and windows, It's been
a cold winter for most of the country and energy efficiency is
very important. We all know about fuel costs... Insulated
windows are always a plus, Typically, they pay for themselves in
five years, The cost: for an average 2,600-square-foot home,
estimate about $10,000 for new windows. Well-placed skylights
are also a good touch to add value.
Decorating - Neutrals always work best - they make rooms appear
bigger and brighter. However, we are in danger of going
overboard with the minimalist look. Put neutral colors on walls,
floor and fittings, but introduce some color through paintings,
and soft furnishings to give your home warmth and appeal. Pack
away as many personal items as you can such as photos. Allow the
potential buyer to view the home as their own with no mental
obstructions.
Natural materials - People like natural materials. Ceramic tile,
hardwood floors, granite. We've gone back to a real appreciation
for historically true materials. And simulated works just as
well. The look is very popular. In floor coverings - especially
bathrooms or kitchens - look for ceramic tile or wood rather
than linoleum, which can tear and be seen as "Cheap" Buyer's
will often overlook an outdated vanity when they see ceramic
tile flooring. In the rest of the house, wood or laminate
products are a plus over wall-to-wall carpet. If you have
carpet, it should be a good product and well maintained so that
a person doesn't have to walk in and think, 'I'm going to have
to spend five grand right off the bat. If possible make room for
a "Decorating allowance" for the buyer this way it doesn't hurt
your budget up front and comes out of your net proceeds.
Yard/Landscaping - There is not a lot you can do with the size
of your yard. However, if you have an unsightly landscaping you
need to spend money tidying it up. It will increase the value of
your property instantly. Make sure you include a deck or patio
area. Smarten up the front appearance and replace any fallen
boundary fencing. Remember to keep the yard a focal point just
as the interior is. Families will be spending time in the yard
as well as the living room. Make landscaping and gardens
child/pet friendly if possible.
Study/Den - Nearly 8 out of 10 households now have a computer.
This has created an essential need for a study in many homes.
Turning an under- stairs cupboard or a section of your finished
basement into a study can be a great asset. But make sure it is
away from the main living and sleeping areas. Entertainment
systems - Most new homes are now pre-wired for surround sound
and broadband points. If you are thinking of having your house
re-wired, remember to include this at the same time. It will
save you a lot of money in the long term.
Basements - What used to be used only for a coal shoot, work
shop, storage, and laundry, is now a living space! People expect
a rec room, finished walls and flooring. If your basement is not
finished, it should at least be DRY and clutter free. If your
whole upstairs is remodeled and modern, but the basement has
water problems, THAT'S what the buyer will remember
unfortunately. Add extra lighting, clean up what I like to call
"Creepy corners." Glass block windows are now standard and
expected. Be sure to pay attention to the stairs leading to the
basement. Paint, secure hand rails, and make it's as appealing
as possible. Again, going back to first impressions. If you know
you've got to have something fixed, fix it Otherwise, people
will subtract the cost or not make an offer on the house. Please
visit my Prepare to
sell page for additional tips that are cheap and easy to do.
Cecilia Sherrard
Realty One - Cleveland Ohio
Please visit my website,
Youshouldown.com