Smart Renos
7 Realtor-approved ways to improve your home's value
If you're thinking about putting your home on the market, or even if you're just looking to spruce it up with a renovation or two, it's helpful to know which upgrades can immediately increase your home's value.
A lot of these changes don't even have to be major — many are simple, inexpensive additions that not only have a huge impact on potential buyers, but also improve your day-to-day life while you're still in the home.
Read on to learn what the experts at Austin Portfolio Real Estate recommend, and start planning which upgrade you'll want to do first.
David Haynes: Eye-catching landscaping to show buyers that your home sets itself apart from the neighbors. The impression made by a buyer seeing your home for the first time needs to be amazing. It doesn't have to be extravagant — clean-cut grass, fresh color in the flower beds, and well-trimmed shrubs and trees can wow them before they ever set foot inside.
Ana & John Swanson: A gourmet kitchen with Thermador appliances will make a difference in the resale value of your home, and you'll enjoy cooking in your kitchen with these upgrades until you're ready to sell.
David McCall: Spring for deep-cleaning and organization services. When buyers see that you are organized and thorough in caring for your home from top-to-bottom, they are more confident in their purchase. It's reassuring to know that your home has been well-maintained.
Kathleen Bucher: New hardwood floors for your entire first floor give a home warmth and coziness that buyers respond to. They're also a high-end touch that most homebuyers are looking for.
Lynn Robin: If you have a dated kitchen, talk to me about the return on investment for updating it prior to selling your home. From appliances to countertops to light fixtures, these improvements go a long way in the selling of your home.
Ronda Prothro: Sprucing up your landscaping is a good way to add value to your home. Since the front yard is the first thing potential buyers see, the landscaping aesthetic and maintenance make an immediate impression — either good or bad. If your house looks great on the outside, then they will assume it looks great on the inside as well.
Liz Newell: Update your light fixtures. Good lighting makes a huge difference in the look and feel of a home. And the best part? It doesn't have to be expensive. For example, getting rid of that not-so-attractive ceiling fan in the living room (or even the master bedroom) and installing a statement chandelier can really add a signature "pop." It's a small investment that will add a fresh feel and really tie a room together. Oh, and don't forget a dimmer switch!