LOW COST IMPROVEMENTS WITH HIGH ROI

THE EASIER THINGS TO START WITH

The big question that is probably on your mind - how can you make your home stand out without breaking the bank? It's not about spending money on a grand piano for the living room or a crystal chandelier for the foyer. It's the small changes that can make the most significant difference.

Painting: We can't stress this enough - a fresh coat of paint for the interiors and/or the exteriors can do wonders. Neutral colors can make your rooms look bigger and brighter. It's like a mini facelift for your home.

New Hardware: Switching out old cabinet knobs, door handles, and light fixtures can give your home an updated look without costing a fortune. It's like buying a new outfit for your house. One of our clients replaced their outdated brass doorknobs with sleek, modern handles and it completely transformed the look of their interior.

Deep Cleaning & De-Cluttering: Never underestimate the power of a clean, clutter-free home. Potential buyers can better envision their lives in the space. Think about how you feel when you walk into a tidy room versus a cluttered one.

Landscaping: First impressions matter. Adding some curb appeal with fresh mulch, seasonal flowers, or even a new mailbox can really make your home stand out. We had a client who fixed up their front yard with some simple landscaping and their home was the talk of the neighborhood.

Updated Lighting: Good lighting can transform a space, making it feel warm and inviting. Consider updating old fixtures or adding lamps in rooms with limited natural light. Bright and airy spaces evoke feelings of happiness, comfort, and relaxation. All great emotions you want buyers to feel when they walk through the space.

Minor Kitchen & Bathroom Updates: You don't have to do a full remodel to make a difference. Updating an old backsplash, resurfacing cabinets, or replacing an outdated vanity can give these crucial rooms a fresh look.

New Faucets & Showerheads: Something as simple as a shiny new faucet or a modern, water-efficient showerhead can make a bathroom or kitchen look more modern. Kitchens and bathrooms are rooms that really influence a buyer's perception of a home. It's best to spend a bit more thought on how you can make these rooms more appealing.

Remember, small changes can have a big impact. It's about making your home look cared for and inviting. That's what buyers fall in love with. And when buyers fall in love, that's when you see the ROI.

Okay, let's talk about the flip side of the coin. Not every home improvement project is going to yield a high return. In fact, some might not bring you any return at all. Here are a few to think twice about:

Over-the-Top Landscaping: While basic landscaping can improve your curb appeal, going overboard with exotic plants, intricate designs, or features like koi ponds can actually turn off buyers who see it as too much work. We once had a client who had built a full Japanese Zen garden in their backyard. While beautiful, it was often seen as high maintenance by potential buyers.

Highly Personalized Decor: That mural of your favorite band might be your pride and joy, but it could be a potential buyer's deal breaker.

Luxury Upgrades in a Mid-Range Neighborhood: Installing high-end features in an average-priced neighborhood can result in you pricing your home out of the market. We worked with a seller who installed a custom wine cellar in their basement. While impressive, it did little to increase their home's value in a neighborhood of first-time buyers.

Swimming Pools: While it might sound surprising, pools often don't add as much value as you'd think. They can be seen as a safety hazard or a maintenance headache.

Garage Conversion: While this might add some extra living space, many buyers want a garage for their cars and storage.

Wall Removal for Open Concept: While open concept living is popular, completely removing walls can sometimes backfire, especially if it eliminates essential rooms like bedrooms.

Before you undertake any major renovations, it's always a good idea to consult with a real estate professional who knows your market. What's hot in one area might be a total dud in another, and you want to make sure you're making the best choices for your home's value.

IMPROVEMENTS WITH LOW OR NO RETURN

THINGS TO AVOID