Make a good first impression!
You only get one chance to make a first impression, and the same goes for your home, so make sure it counts!
Paint your front door, trim or shutters, and pick a bold colour that will help your house stand out, but make sure that it matches the rest of the colours on your home. Upgrading your mail box, install new house numbers if they are old, faded or missing, and give those exterior light fixtures a good cleaning or consider upgrading those as well. These simple steps will give your home a polished look, maximize curb appeal and deliver a great first impression.
Paint, Paint, Paint!
One of the simplest and most cost effective home improvement is a fresh coat of paint. Newly painted rooms look clean and updated, and to a potential buyer that spells value. Even if your current palette is relatively new, scuffs or wear marks can channel messy vibes, and unusual colour choices, as fashionable as they may be, can limit your home’s appeal.
When selecting paint colors, keep in mind that neutrals appeal to the greatest number of people, thus making your home more desirable. So break out that roller and slap on a couple coats of crowd-pleasing winter white or shaker beige.
Shed some new light!
Replace any old and outdated light fixtures and ceiling fans. How can you tell if it has to go? Well if it’s more than 15 years old, yet not an antique or made of solid brass… take it down! “Retro” is not something most home buyers are looking for. Instead, opt for clean lines and popular modern finishes like pewter or brushed nickel.
Roll up the rugs!
Hardwood floors are a major selling point for most buyers, and a rug that’s even slightly stained or tattered is a turn-off. So don’t hide wood floors, unless they’re a mess or your rugs are classic and pristine. Always remove area rugs from your kitchen, because the room will feel cleaner and more spacious without them.
Ditch old draperies!
Dated window treatments need to come down, pronto! There is a good chance that if your curtains are more than 10 years old they need to go. If privacy isn’t an issue, just leave the windows bare to maximize natural light. Otherwise, invest in some basic cotton or linen drapes, as simple clean fabrics are always a safe way to go.
If you spend the time, and a bit of money, to invest in your home it will only increase its value. Even if you don’t plan to sell any time soon, you will have the added benefit of enjoying all your hard work.