Buyers are most interested in how move-in ready a home is. Sellers can tackle a few of these projects to get their home move-in ready, making it more appealing to a larger pool of buyers.
According to the National Association of REALTORS® these 5 upgrades bring the most value to a home.
- Fresh Paint
- Consistent Flooring
- A Bright Kitchen
- Upgraded Countertops and Appliances
- A Professional Cleaning of the Bathroom(s)
1. Fresh Paint
Most agents recommend their seller(s) apply a fresh coat of paint throughout the house. The paint should be a light, neutral color like white, beige, or light grey. Fresh paint gives a bright, clean, and revived look to a home, giving the buyers a new slate for customization.
2. Consistent Flooring
Real estate pros say buyers are looking for uniform flooring throughout a house — one or two types at most.
“Buyers may expect hardwood floors or premium vinyl. But not all carpeting has to go.”
It is recommended to replace any dated and stained carpet. Select light, neutral colors when replacing carpeted areas.
3. A Bright Kitchen
Buyers are looking for a bright, open, and clean kitchen. This can mean lightening the cabinets/countertops, painting the walls, installing lighter floors, or installing brighter light bulbs – whatever you can do to brighten the kitchen space will appeal more to a buyer.
4. Upgraded Countertops & Appliances
Dated appliances and countertops can be a turn-off to buyers. Experts suggest replacing countertops with gray or white granite, marble, or quartz. Butcher block is also an excellent cost-effective, and popular countertop option.
Matching and updated appliances are a BIG bonus to buyers. Stainless steel and black appliances are the most desired.
5. A Professional Cleaning of the Bathroom(s)
A professional, deep cleaning of the bathrooms can make a world of difference, especially when a bathroom upgrade is not within the budget. It is essential to give special attention to all the nooks and crannies, tile grout, baseboards, and soap scum. Most cleaners charge $50-$100 per hour, and this small fee can make a HUGE difference when selling a home.
