If you want to improve your house either to sell it or just for a bit of newness, you can do so with some simple DIY budget-friendly projects. Should your goal be to sell, understand first impressions matter and matter a lot. The majority of house hunts begin online and that presents a golden opportunity. It’s a chance to wow would-be buyers with great listing photos and a solid listing description. But with some great DIY budget-friendly home improvements, you’ll be able to pique their interest.
DIY Budget-Friendly Home Improvements
First, know about the home repairs sellers should make before listing their properties. Any issues with the electrical system and plumbing must be fixed before putting your home on the market. In addition, problems like mold growth, foundation and roof issues need addressing, as well. In other words, if it’s a major problem, it’s got to be repaired before listing your property. Otherwise, you’ll have to sell it in as-is condition.
It’s understandable if you, like many Americans, associate home improvement projects with money flying out your door. After all, the average bathroom remodel tops $16,000, according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2014 Cost Vs. Value Report. Replacing your windows runs $8,000 on average. Kitchens and master bedroom projects usually run many times that amount. Turns out, though, that some smaller projects can add instant curb appeal, make living in your abode more pleasant, and come with a manageable price. —Time.com
If your house doesn’t have any major issues, go straight to those minor problems, like a runny toilet or worn weather-stripping on the door. The point being, buyers will definitely notice anything that’s wrong with the house, no matter how small, since it’s such a big financial investment. And because house searches start on the web, it’s a great idea to give potential buyers plenty of incentive to put your property on their must-see lists. Here are some of the best DIY budget-friendly home improvements to make:
- Paint the front door. While you might not believe the front door is of any importance, if it’s plain, people probably won’t give it a second thought. But, if it looks old or is a strange color, people will most definitely take notice. So, paint the front door a complementary color to the exterior. There’s nothing wrong with an accent color, so long as it isn’t overwhelming or doesn’t clash.
- Install new kitchen hardware. You can also paint the cabinet to refinish them and give them a completely new look. While you’re at it, consider changing the hinges and pulls. Take it a step further and replace the kitchen faucet. Little changes like replacing the kitchen hardware will go a super long way. Doing so will also call your attention to other little improvements.
- Replace the window treatments. When you first moved-in, chances are excellent you either loved or hated the window coverings. Depending on your preference, they stayed or were replaced. Now, it’s probably time for a change and one that will help to lighten the look and feel of your house.
- Install new bathroom hardware. Just like the kitchen hardware, bath hardware is easy to replace for the better. If you’re really aiming to impress, consider replacing the vanity. At the very least, a new sink faucet, some new towels, and a new rug will do the trick. This is also a good time to purge the storage and medicine cabinet.
- Give the curb appeal more pizzazz. Did you know people form an impression of a house in just 7 to 10 seconds? By sprucing up the curb appeal with a few colorful plants, some mulch, and a little lawn care, you’ll be able to turn ordinary into extraordinary. By the way, it’s also probably time to change the house numbers for new ones.
If you’d like to know more about quick home improvements to sell and how to present your house for the most positive impact, please phone me at 407-616-7286, I’ll be happy to speak with you.