As people prepare to sell their homes, I often get asked if they should fix it up and to what extent. Everyone wants their home to sell quickly and for the most money possible. They don’t necessarily want to, or are able to, dump a lot of resources into the home. Here are my thoughts on this:
1. AS IS – If you truly don’t want to do any repairs or updates, you can sell your home “as is”. This may bring less cash in the end, but you’re not putting anything in to it. Keep in mind that this could limit your buyers to cash and conventional financing. Those with government loans may be ruled out depending on what repairs are needed.
2. CLEAN UP – this is the cheapest way to get a home ready. Throw away, put away, organize, declutter, etc. Make every room as open as possible. Clean off all countertops, vanities, and dressers. Add a few nice towels, a bowl of lemons on the table, and a soft throw on the couch. Fix little things like a broken door knob or burned out lightbulbs. Understand that a home inspection will most likely still result in a few repairs.
3. FRESHEN UP – Go one step further by painting walls and woodwork in neutral tones. It’s amazing what a fresh coat of paint will do! Shampoo carpets and replace flooring if it’s in very poor condition. Replace outdated light fixtures (Grandma’s 1970 chandelier). Many buyers are looking for move-in ready and this will cause your home to appeal to more buyers.
4. REMODEL – If your home is in a very desirable area with higher prices, it may be beneficial to remodel some areas of your home. For example, paint kitchen cabinets and upgrade to granite countertops. Rip out the pink tile in the bathroom and add wainscotting. Before investing large amounts of money into remodeling, discuss your thoughts with your real estate professional.
If you are super worried about the condition of your home, you have the option of doing a home inspection before putting it on the market and taking care of any major repairs. Please feel free to contact me with any questions. I would be happy to walk through your home and help you decide what preparations are right for you!
(I’m your real estate go-to person. If you have any questions, please reach out. I am always here to help! And, as always, your referral is the highest compliment.)
