If you plan to sell your Flagstaff home this year, my recommendation remains: Don’t spend any money on home improvements until you consult with your Realtor.® If you have a limited budget (as everyone does), you want to make sure your money is spent where it will have the greatest impact.
When I approach a house for a listing evaluation, I look at the entryway and front door. These should be neat, tidy and in good repair. If the door is the paintable type, a fresh coat of paint is always a good idea. (And, I know a painting company that may do it for free if you allow them to prepare a bid for the rest of the house.) This recommendation comports with the latest Annual Cost vs. Value Remodeling Project report’s recommendation that the #1 value is replacing the front door with a steel entry door. If the garage door faces the street and is a mess, that’s high in the ranking this year, too. Making a first impression is important.
Next, we’ll consider all the fundamentals (roof, furnace, water heater, electrical system and structure). If you’re confident they will pass a buyer’s home inspection, we’ll move on to other things. If you’re not sure of those things, I suggest getting a handle on those potential costs by having a formal home inspection. That will cost $400-$500.
If you get past the entryway and the fundamentals here are some cosmetic things we may suggest:
1) Improve flooring. Wood, tile, and bad carpet can be a show-stopper. If the flooring is chipped, torn, or dirty, buyers will think your home hasn’t been cared for properly, which could result in a lower offer — or no sale at all.
2) Replace or add molding and baseboards. Some homeowners are shy to experiment with this, especially if they live in a small home, but it can be very attractive in any size home. The measly baseboard that builders often use simply looks cheap. Adding a wider baseboard and a fresh coat of paint makes the room come to life.
3) Paint. Accent walls, or even just fresh paint throughout makes a lasting impression. Spend a couple hundred dollars more to make the trim a different color – that really dresses up a room. Choose colors and textures wisely. Don’t get carried away with a color you love (e.g. purple walls). Remember, that you want your home to appeal to the masses. You can always paint your new home purple!
Call The Elite Team at RE/MAX Peak Properties NOW to plan your 2015 Flagstaff home sale.