Renovating Your Home To Sell? Here’s What Buyers Are Begging For
Must-Have Home Updates
Buyers are looking for homes with enhanced curb appeal, including landscaping, exterior improvements, and a charming front porch.
Upgrading the kitchen with modern appliances, countertops, cabinetry, and stylish elements can significantly increase the value of a home.
Bathroom renovations that include replacing fixtures, updating tiles and lighting, and adding energy-efficient features are attractive to buyers.
Are you planning on renovating your home to sell soon? It’s a great way to upgrade your home and improve the way you live. Even better is that some of the upgrades you’re making can have a big impact of the look and value of your investment.
As an Realtor who works with buyers and sellers I get a chance to see both sides of the transaction. I loved getting homes ready to sell but I also love home shopping with clients. We are sharing some of the insights they have given us into what buyers are looking for today.
In this article, we'll explore a range of improvements that buyers are looking for. It will help you maximize the value when it’s time to sell.
Buyers are begging for renovations that focus on enhancing curb appeal, updating the kitchen, and renovating the bathrooms. They value a well-maintained exterior with landscaping, a charming front porch, and attractive entryways. In the kitchen, buyers seek modern appliances, stylish countertops, and updated cabinetry. When it comes to bathrooms, buyers appreciate fixtures and features that are up to date, such as faucets, shower-heads, tiles, lighting, and vanities. These renovations not only improve the overall look and functionality of the home but also significantly increase its value in the eyes of potential buyers.
Curb Appeal Matters – Always
Enhancing your home's curb appeal is a crucial step in maximizing its value. Invest in landscaping, ensuring a well-maintained lawn, trimmed shrubs, and vibrant flowers. Repaint the exterior, fix any visible flaws, and consider adding a charming front door or porch upgrades to create a welcoming first impression.
If your home doesn’t have a covered front porch space it should be high on your list of to-do’s. A classic covered front porch is a great addition to a home. If a porch can hold a chair or two it becomes the perfect place to talk to neighbors, greet trick-or-treaters and comfortably hang out.
Update the Kitchen
The kitchen is often the focal point of a home. Consider making upgrades such as replacing outdated appliances, installing modern countertops, and updating cabinetry. A fresh coat of paint, new fixtures, and stylish backsplash can also transform the space. A well-designed and modern kitchen can significantly increase the value of your home.
We like to say classics never go out of style. Today there are a ton of affordable and classical styles you can update your kitchen with. It doesn’t have to be boring and it doesn’t have to be matchy-matchy.
Bathroom Renovation
Upgrading your bathrooms can greatly impact the value of your home. Replace old fixtures, such as faucets and shower-heads, with more modern options. Consider replacing worn-out tiles, installing new lighting, and updating the vanity or countertops. Adding energy-efficient features like low-flow toilets or water-saving faucets can also appeal to potential buyers.
Like the kitchen, classics are always good here. Consider that while popularity of tubs in Primary Suites has been declining, a tub in a secondary bathrooms that is easy to bathe children in never goes out of style.
Energy Efficiency Upgrades
Improving your home's energy efficiency not only saves you money on utility bills but also adds value. Consider installing energy-efficient windows, adding insulation, and upgrading to more efficient HVAC systems. Solar panels and smart thermostats are also attractive features that can increase your home's value in the long run.
Battery backups and geothermal heating systems are climbing in popularity. Self sufficiency is driving some buyers away from gas heat and appliances so they can be fully electric with ‘off-grid’ ability.
Open Floor Plan?
Creating an open floor plan can be a game-changer. A professional can help you assess the structural possibilities of removing walls and creating a more open, spacious layout. Open floor plans for main living spaces are highly sought after as they promote a modern and versatile living environment.
Open Floor plans are still incredibly popular, but their are some limitations that buyers are starting to question. Main living open floor plan spaces of Kitchens and Living rooms are still high on buyers wish lists.
Multi-Function & Closed Off Rooms
This may seem like the exact opposite to the previous suggestion of an open floor plan. But Covid asked families to be lots of things in tight spaces. As a result we are seeing buyers who are looking for rooms that can be open concept, and at the same time can become multiple smaller spaces.
For example: Extra bedrooms that could become home offices. Or dining rooms that have the ability to be closed off from the main floor – so they can become kids ‘school’ rooms. The ability for rooms to be ‘Swiss Army Knives’ of versatility is climbing on buyers wish-lists.
Adequate Storage Solutions
Effective storage solutions are always in high demand. Maximize your home's value by installing built-in closets, organizing systems, and utilizing underutilized spaces. Consider adding shelving or built-in cabinets to provide ample storage options for potential buyers.
If you have large bedroom or hall closets, consider upgrading them with a California style closet glow up. Show off your storage. Adding more shelving and ‘racks’ for large plastic tubs helps showcase the potential for storage.
Upgrade Flooring
Replacing worn-out or outdated flooring can make a significant difference in your home's value. Consider options such as hardwood, laminate, or luxury vinyl plank flooring, which are durable and visually appealing. Ensure proper installation to guarantee a polished and professional look.
If you have tired wood floors, having them sanded and stained a more on trend color is a great way to update your home. Consistent flooring on a main floor can unify the space and make it seem larger.
Fresh Interior Paint
A fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into any space. Choose neutral colors that appeal to a wide range of buyers. A clean, well-maintained interior with modern and tasteful paint choices can significantly increase the perceived value of your home.
Paint is one of the easiest and cheapest way to bring you home into the present. Old dated colors and dirty scuffed walls show poorly and make a home feel behind the times.
Smart Home Features
Embrace technology by incorporating smart home features into your property. Install devices like smart thermostats, security systems, and automated lighting. These modern conveniences not only improve your daily living experience but also make your home more attractive to potential buyers.
A home control center in a kitchen office space or a smart security doorbell linked with additional cameras show as safe and secure – exactly what any buyer is looking for. Try not to go too far with your gadgetry though, as it may look overwhelming to a non-tech person.
Regular Maintenance
Don't underestimate the importance of regular maintenance. Keep your home in excellent condition by addressing repairs promptly, keeping the property clean, and conducting routine inspections. A well-maintained home showcases its value and leaves a positive impression on prospective buyers.
One of the things we look for when we are touring homes is the maintenance record on the HVAC or furnace. We want to see that the systems have been checked consistently over the years.
Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor spaces play a big role in attracting buyers to your home. We can thank Covid for this one and buyers are looking for well-maintained and functional outdoor areas. Consider outdoor rooms and areas for sports or entertaining.
Upgrade your outdoor living areas with features such as a patio or deck, outdoor seating, and a barbecue or fire pit for socializing and outdoor dining. Elements like a well-maintained lawn, beautiful plants and flowers, and mood lighting are all high on wish lists. Just know that landscaping – while great for visual appeal and attracting buyers – has little impact on your property value.
So plan accordingly and get a real estate expert to provide some input if you’re considering major landscaping improvements. They can tell you if what you’re planning will increase your value or just your curb appeal.
Renovating Your Home To Sell ...Faster
Not everything you do to your home will impact the bottom line. But they may make your home more desirable. Maximizing the value of your home requires strategic investments in areas that have the most significant impact. Focus on the areas that don’t match the rest of the home, or a have fallen behind the times. Consider the local market and what updates your comparable homes have undertaken.
Remember to balance your budget, market trends, and your personal preferences when making these improvements. With careful planning and some smart improvements, you can elevate your home's value for buyers and enjoy the benefits of a quicker sale when it’s time to sell.
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