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Increase your home’s resale value, part two

June 25, 1:14 AMHome and Living ExaminerAndrea Campbell
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Previously we started a discussion on seven things a homeowner can do to add resale value to the property. Even if you are not ready to sell yet, or are waiting for a real estate recovery period, there are things you can do now.

In Part One, we talked about Curb Appeal (your home’s landscaping, façade and walkway), Lighting, Closets, and some Kitchen ideas. Today we will concentrate on three more areas of your home to pay attention to.

Here are some additional ideas:

Garage
Previously you might not have thought that a “freshen up” budget should be applied to the garage. But today this zone is not just a place to park the car. People are wanting to utilize all spaces. Pay attention to lighting here too, because no other place can feel more neglected than the garage. De-clutter this room and potential buyers will think they’ve inherited more storage spots. I’ve heard of homeowners who have added an additional window to their garage, a washbasin and sink area; and floor finishes into this space with good result.

Bathroom
Never have I heard so much chatter about bathrooms. It is a highly important room probably because the homebuyer wants to be able to think of himself or herself in a clean, new and private space. A fresh coat of paint will do wonders—choose a palette that is clean and a reminder of the coral seas. If you can, update the toilet by getting a new one, minimum; especially if it is outdated or not one of the water-saving, efficient (low-volume flush) models.

If you’ve not the funds to create a “spa haven,” at least try to address some cosmetic issues. Purchase a brand new shower curtain, put out new, fresh towels, and clean off the counters except for a few well-intended items: soap dispenser, silver brush set, marble drinking cup, the type of accouterments that can make the top look really nice. Make sure that fixtures shine. Add sconces on either side of the mirror. A heated towel bar is a nice touch. Anything that can update and make this room look posh, will not be wasted. And looky-Lous will check out your bathroom closet so make it look organized and orderly.

Professional Touch
Be aware of the fact that you may need to spend some funds to spruce things up and make critical improvements that will pay you back. If the task seems daunting or you are overwhelmed, bring in professional help. Don’t wait before your home has been on the market for six months or more to look for outside help—the anxiety will kill you. Engaging a designer or stager may be just what you need for a reality check. These people are in the business of real estate dressing-and-showing for positive buying and selling effect.

A tip: if you can tastefully prepare a checklist of amenities that your home has, leave them out for buyers to take with them. It may be the extra punch to help them decide in your favor as they go to compare your property with other comparables.

By investing some dollars into updates and “refreshing” features, not only is time money, but you may garner a more solid selling price. But what’s better is the satisfaction that you were able to pull it together and be ready to move on.

To read Part One of this article, click here.

* * *
I have an upcoming interview with the host of a new TLC show, “Stager Invasion,” where I talk to Lisa Lynch. For more tips on adding resale value to your properrty, look for the article and watch the show for inspiration.

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