The local
handyman is the one to call for help with home improvement especially if you
are looking for ways to maximize your investment and make your home more
competitive in today’s real estate market.
Many people
who plan to sell their home will invest a ton of money, fixing everything in
sight. The over saturated market is really tough for sellers. Homebuyers have
plenty of inventory to choose from, so if a house does not meet their needs
they will simply move onto the next house on their long list of properties to
look at.
While it is
wise to make some improvement to show pride of ownership, the local handymanadvises against overdoing it. If you
spend too much money on home remodeling, you probably will not realize a return
on the investment.
Most real
estate experts agree that some home improvement and upgrades are well worth the
seller’s time and money. New kitchen
countertops and appliances, bathroom remodeling and energy efficient upgrades
will pay off, but there are some improvements that are just not worth the
hassle.
Before
investing too much money in home renovation, consider the surrounding
properties in the neighborhood. For
example, if most homes have laminate countertops and linoleum floors, it would
be inappropriate to invest in granite countertops, ceramic floors and high-end
appliances. If no one in the
neighborhood has a pool, hot tub or gazebo, then this would be a bad
investment. Your home should be
competitive, but not way over the top.
Unwarranted upgrades will only turn buyers away. Many buyers are turned off by the in-ground
swimming pool because of the high-maintenance and liability exposure.
Some
homeowners have converted their attached garage to living space to add a
bedroom, game room or family area. While
this seemed like a great idea for your growing family, another family will miss
the convenience of a place to park cars and store outdoor equipment. If most of the homes in your neighborhood
have garages, then keep the garage!
Fresh paint
is a great investment – worth $20 in the can and $1,000 on the wall. If you have always dreamed of bright colors
and extravagant designs, save it for your own home and keep your home improvement efforts more neutral. Buyers
want to imagine themselves living in the home and making their own personal
touches. Keeping it neutral ensures
their furniture and accessories will go with the home.
Homer epairs like patching holes in the walls or replacing scratched or gouged trim
will show pride of ownership and make the home appear to be well cared
for. Adding too much flare will result
in a waste of money. If the buyer
doesn’t like it, they will be likely to ask for a price reduction so they can
afford to tear it out and redo it according to their own style.