When it comes to selling it can be confusing trying to determine what new home buyers want in a property. Where do you begin? Which projects should you undertake to attract the most potential buyers? Its worth the sellers time and money to consider serious upgrades to finishes in the current market where inventory is low, and buyers are willing to pay top dollar for updated properties.
It is normal for new buyers to have a long list of must haves and wants however, some are open to making their own improvements over time. Here are a few tips to assist you in preparing your home for market.
1. Neutral paint colors
Paint your walls in neutral colors. Avoid dark colors and painting each room in a different color. Its best to paint the whole house in light grays or whites for a more uniform appearance throughout. Buyers want to view the home as a blank canvas waiting for their finishing touches and décor choices.
2. Kitchen
Today’s buyers like the open concept floor plans with islands when space permits. Additionally, they want counter tops finished with stone surfaces like quartz or granite. Updated flooring and lighting also top the list for needs and wants.
If a full kitchen renovation is not in your plans or budget there are small things you can do to update the aesthetic of your kitchen. Newer appliances can improve the overall appearance and functionality of a kitchen. Buyers prefer stainless steel appliances and newer appliances are more energy efficient.
3. Flooring matters
Shiny hard wood floors top the list for buyer’s choice flooring. If your home has old worn carpet or torn vinyl flooring its time to replace with new flooring. If you are lucky enough to have hardwood flooring under your old carpet, have them refinished to a shine. Try to keep the flooring consistent from room to room using the same products and colors versus several times of laminate flooring and ceramic tile.
4. Storage
Storage comes in many forms from walk-in closets to two car garages. A home designed with lots of storage is at the top of the wants list. Buyers want to know that they are moving into a home that will have enough room for them to store their belongings. Keep your storage areas uncluttered and store any items that you will not need until after you have moved.
5. Energy efficiency
Home buyers want features like newer windows and doors, energy efficient appliances, solar power or heat pumps in a home. Lowering utility costs is a priority. Newer furnaces and alternative heat sources provide peace of mind to new home buyers. If your source of heating is outdated or at the end of its life the replacement expense may scare away some buyers.
6. Modern Bathroom
Modern bathroom designers have replaced the bathtub with a walk-in shower and consumers love them. Some homeowners require a bathtub, so try to ensure that at least one bathroom has a tub. Buyers want updated sinks and counter tops and water saving toilets.
If replacing these items is not in your plans or budget, there are a few things you can do to refresh your bathroom. Keep bathrooms clutter free. Update the linens and window coverings. Buyers’ want a spa like experience with subdued colors and clean shiny surfaces. Depersonalize the bathroom and store any items you do not need until after the sale.
7. Maintenance free exterior
Wood decks are wonderful but can splinter, warp and rot away over time. Composite decking is good for the environment because its made from sawdust and recycled plastic. It does not require stain or paint and has a long lifespan. Metal roofing is a great investment and selling feature with a 40 – 60-year life span. They reduce the cooling costs by reflecting heat in the summer and save on winter heating costs because they are a great insulator.
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