A few DIY cosmetic upgrades can drastically alter the appearance of a home and help catch the attention of interested buyers, increasing your return when the home goes from ‘for sale’ to ‘sold.’
Looking to sell your home in the near future? Small investments in the aesthetic of the property could add value and increase the ROI – even if the renovations aren’t too costly.
With springtime underway, consider these DIY-friendly upgrades for a space refresh just in time to sell.
Paint the walls
Wall color preferences are personal, and statement choices like bold paint colors or accent walls can help people express their personal style within their home. Unfortunately, prospective buyers may not share that affinity for such boldness – and it may shape their view on the home in its entirety.
Consider repainting the interior walls a soft, neutral color. The coherence can help a home feel larger, and will present the space as a clean, blank canvas for an interested buyer to personalize.
Resurface kitchen cabinets
Often seen as the heart of the household, kitchens can be a make-or-break feature for prospective buyers. Unless they are planning on remodeling prior to move-in day, new homeowners will want a kitchen that is functional and at least moderately upgraded.
A quick and budget-friendly way to give your kitchen a makeover is to resurface the cabinets. Refacing them structurally and/or with a new coat of paint will update the overall appearance of the kitchen and can turn older or basic cabinetry into a more custom asset.
According to The Spruce, resurfacing cabinets can cost 40%-50% less than replacing kitchen cabinets altogether, making it a great option for sellers.
Shape-up outdoor space
From patios to grassy yards, outdoor space is an in-demand feature these days – especially heading into the warmer months. With grass growing green again and flowers beginning to bud, frame any outdoor living space on your property to look like a relaxing sanctuary.
Arrange existing patio furniture in an inviting way. Inexpensive outdoor additions include hanging Edison bulb string lights, planting flowers in pots and adding a weather-friendly rug under tables or chairs to frame the space. And remember, the greenery and landscaping in a backyard can make a home look more polished and sell for higher value – read up on why.
Stage with buyers in mind
In addition to thoroughly cleaning, refine any clutter or personal mementos inside the home. Simplifying the space will help it appear tidier and larger.
Working with the furniture and décor you already own is easy and free. As you assess what items line shelves, decorate the sofa and accent the bed, consider what you – the seller – would be thrown off by when touring someone else’s house. Also remember to highlight the space by opening up curtains and maximizing natural light when it’s time for showings.
Boost curb appeal
It doesn’t have to cost much money for the outside of a home to look welcoming and well-cared for. Make sure to mow the lawn and tend to any other greenery that may have overgrown or died in recent months. Adding items like a new welcome mat and planters beside the front door are low-cost ways to make a big impact on the home’s external appearance.
To give the exterior a more drastic makeover, consider repainting the front door for a pop of color. A pro tip is to paint the framing of the storm door outside as well for continuity.
About Don Cholak
