ADD VALUE TO YOUR HOME

Preparing your home for sale can be quick and easy with a few simple fixes to boost its appeal. Prior to listing, our Agents will walk your home with you, take detailed notes & photos, and provide a full report of suggested improvements to maximize your home’s demand and profitability. They will also help you avoid projects that are not worth your precious time and money. While every home’s needs are unique, below are some general suggestions.

QUICK AND EASY UPDATES:

Curb Appeal

1. Landscaping: Mow the lawn, trim bushes, and plant some colorful flowers.
2. Front Door: Repaint or replace the front door for a fresh, welcoming look.
3. House Numbers: Update or clean the house numbers for better visibility and a modern touch.
4. Exterior Cleaning: Power wash the exterior walls, driveway, and walkways.

Interior Improvements

1. Declutter: Remove personal items, excess furniture, and clutter to create a more spacious feel.
2. Deep Clean: Clean every room thoroughly, including carpets, windows, and appliances.
3. Paint: A little painting can go a LONG way with Buyers. Apply a fresh coat of neutral-colored paint to walls to make the space look clean and updated.
4. Lighting: Replace outdated light fixtures and ensure all bulbs are working. Consider adding more light sources to brighten up the space.
5. Flooring: Replacing old or stained carpets with fresh carpet is relatively inexpensive compared to hardwood or LVP and makes a big impact.
6. Minor Repairs: Fix leaky faucets or squeaky doors, patch and paint wall holes and complete any other minor issues.

Kitchen & Bath Updates

1. Cabinet Hardware: Replace old cabinet knobs and handles with modern ones.
2. Caulking: Re-caulk the kitchen and bathroom areas to give them a fresh, clean appearance.
3. Grout: Clean or replace dirty grout in bathrooms and kitchens.
4. Fixtures: Update faucets, showerheads, and towel bars for a more modern look.

Staging & Presentation

1. Furniture Arrangement: Rearrange furniture to create open, inviting spaces.
2. Depersonalize: Remove personal photos and memorabilia to help buyers envision themselves in the home.
3. Decor: Add some fresh flowers, plants, and neutral decor items to enhance the home's appeal.
4. Aromas: Incorporate subtle air fresheners before showings to create a pleasantly scented atmosphere.

Miscellaneous

1. Windows: Clean windows inside and out to let in more natural light.
2. Closets: Clean & organize closets to showcase your home’s storage ability.
3. Pets: Remove pet odors and consider taking pets out of the house with you during showings if possible.
4. Home Inspection: Consider getting a pre-inspection to identify and address potential issues before buyers find them.

MAJOR UPDATES:

While these expenses are more costly, upgrades and improvements to your home’s major systems and appliances will greatly increase both buyer demand and the appraisal value of your home, as such, providing the highest return on your investment.

Exterior Improvements

1. New Roof: Replacing an old roof can be a significant expense but is essential for preventing leaks and improving the home's exterior appearance.
2. Windows: Installing new, energy-efficient windows can enhance curb appeal and improve energy efficiency.
3. Siding: Replacing or updating the home's siding can give it a fresh, new look and improve insulation.

Systems and Utilities

1. HVAC System: Replacing an old heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system can improve energy efficiency and comfort.
2. Plumbing and Electrical: Update old plumbing and electrical systems to meet current standards and ensure safety.
3. Insulation: Adding or upgrading insulation in the attic, walls, and floors to improve energy efficiency.

Smart Home Features

1. Security Systems: Installing a modern security system with cameras, alarms, and smart locks can increase the sense of safety.
2. Home Automation: Integrating smart home features such as thermostats, lighting, and appliances that can be controlled remotely.

Outdoor Enhancements

1. Landscaping: Invest in professional landscaping to design and install new gardens, trees, walkways, and lighting.
2. Fence Installation: Add a new fence for privacy and security, which can be a desirable feature for many buyers.

WANT TO GO ALL OUT?

For homeowners considering larger investments to boost market value, here are some additional improvements. These upgrades are suggested with caution as they are costlier, more time-consuming, and offer a lower return on investment. If an area of your home is extremely outdated, one of these might be worth considering. If not, we recommend focusing your time and money on more profitable projects if you plan to sell soon.

1. Kitchen Remodel: Updating the kitchen can be costly but offers a high return on investment. Consider new countertops, cabinets, appliances, and flooring.
2. Bathroom Remodel: Upgrading bathrooms with new fixtures, tiles, vanities, and modern showers or tubs can greatly enhance the home's appeal.
3. Flooring: Replacing old carpets with LVP, hardwood floors, or high-quality tile can make a big impact.
4. Finished Basement: Our Hampton Roads area is at sea level so naturally, we see few basements. However, there are homes in certain areas around the 7 cities that offer them! If you’re a homeowner with an unfinished basement, consider converting it into a usable living space, such as a family room, office, or additional bedroom.
5. Open Floor Plan: Removing non-load-bearing walls to create an open floor plan can make the home feel more spacious and modern.