In many places, home prices are heading up and more buyers are hitting the market. If you're selling, you obviously want to get the best price, but don't want to spend a lot on renovations. Fair enough! However, studies show there are five issues you really should address, because they turn off home buyers right away. Fix these and you have your best shot at selling your home in less time for more money. Best of all, you can tackle these issues yourself for not very much money.
1. Paint problems. Peeling paint on siding and trim makes a house look uncared for and results in lower offers from buyers. Inside, walls painted colors that are dark, like navy, or unusual, like hot pink, are a complete buyer turnoff. But painting is an easy and inexpensive do-it-yourself fix.
2. Unkempt landscaping. Your home's curb appeal can make or break a sale. Get out the clippers, pruning shears, and rake, and weed and mulch the beds. It doesn't take that long to spruce up your landscaping, but it can pay big dividends.
3. Wallpaper and paneling. Outdated wallpaper can really throw buyers. It takes time to strip and repaint, but it's worth it. Have a wallpaper stripping party, or hire a company to do the stripping and repaint the walls yourself. Paneling is tougher because removing it can uncover problems. Painting it may or may not work. Talk to your realtor to decide the best route.
4. Mirrored walls. Big walls of mirrors or mirror tiles just don't fly with most buyers who think removing them is a major project. Take them down yourself; repairs shouldn't be that difficult, and then just repaint. To avoid paint matching problems, either use an accent color or repaint the whole room.
5. Closet doors. Buyers lose their enthusiasm for a place when closet doors are missing, out of adjustment, or if they've been replaced with drapes or beads. Make sure all closets have doors installed, adjusted, and properly working.
As a buyer, when you see these problems in a home you otherwise like, realize that you could be looking at a bargain. Walk away if exterior paint issues indicate severe moisture problems. But the rest of these conditions are minor issues that you can fix yourself for not much money.
12 GIFTS FOR HANDY DADS
Most fathers appreciate a new tool to use around the family abode. Here are a dozen ideas for a range of budgets.
1. Stud Finder. Locating studs in a wall helps with everything from hanging pictures to attaching handrails. There are many models to choose from.
2. Knife Sharpener. Quickly, easily, and accurately keep blades working at their best.
3. Floating Waterproof LED Flashlight. LEDs are super bright and the waterproof floating design is great if the light is dropped in a clogged bathtub or puddle on the driveway.
4. Multi-Tool. These handy devices can include a wide variety of tools from wire strippers, files, different sized pliers to screwdrivers. Prices increase with the number of options.
5. Drill Bit Set.A new set of drill bits can be appreciated if Dad had his power drill a while and some of the original drill bits have dulled.
6. Packaged Tool Set. Typically the case contains dozens of tools for basic household projects. Keep handy in a closet. Look for sets that include a hammer, tape measure, and level.
7. Hearing Protector with AM/FM Radio and Music Player Compatibility. This is for operating power tools and garden equipment. The design lets Dad listen to his favorite radio station or connect to an MP3 music player through the built-in input jack.
8. Tool Belt. Convenient for carrying tools to the place Dad will use them. Consider adding some items like a big set of pliers or vise grips.
9. Cordless Power Drill. These are great for lots of jobs around the house. Good home units are reasonably priced.
10. String Trimmer. This is perfect for edging lawns and cutting areas too small for the mower. Choose from gas, battery powered, or corded electric models.
11. Leaf Blower. Cleans up leaves and grass clippings, but also terrific for keeping the garage floor clean. There are gas, battery, and corded electric options.
12. Tool Box. Choose between portable models or cabinets with drawers that can swallow a whole workshop.
Whenever you're ready to put your home on the market and purchase another, we're happy to answer any questions you may have about financing. We can also help with refinancing your existing home, or funding home improvements. Please call or email us any time. We're always here to help.... Have a great day!
P.S.: The housing market is recovering and mortgage rates are still at very attractive levels. If you're thinking about buying or refinancing, it's smart to start the process early. Please call or email us to talk about the appealing options available now.
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