“I’m going to wait until the spring market to list my home, so that I can make some upgrades this winter.”
We hear this from clients all the time. And we understand – making repairs and renovations is essential to get all the money you can out of the sale of your home.
But often times, when we go back in the spring, very little was completed during the winter months. Depending on the condition of your home, interior renovations may require the most amount of grunt work before putting your home on the market.
Renovations to the kitchen and bathroom are most likely to add value to the home for resale, according to a NAR Research Report. Other impactful upgrades on the list include adding a new bathroom, installing or resurfacing hardwood floors, and a new master suite. But not all updates need to be as expensive or timely as putting in a whole new kitchen. We’ve created a list of eight budget-friendly improvements to complete this winter so that you are ready whenever you decide to put your house on the market.
- Flooring. Replace old flooring or carpet with hardwood. Hardwood floors are highly sought after because they are attractive and easy to clean. If you already have hardwood floors, consider refinishing them if needed.
- Interior Paint. Fresh paint in neutral colors brightens up any room. This simple step can drastically change the look of your home. Don’t forget about the trim and doors!
- Small Repairs. From cabinet hinges to leaky bathroom faucets, winter is the perfect time to complete all the minor repairs on your list.
- Light fixtures. Light fixtures can set the tone in any room. By upgrading your light fixtures and ceiling fans, you will create a more modern feel throughout the home.
- Cabinets. Both the kitchen and bathroom are high on the list of renovations that add value, but if you don’t have the budget for a complete remodel, consider replacing or repainting the cabinets. This step will upgrade two of the most looked at rooms in the home.
- Backsplash. Adding a new tile backsplash is another cost-effective way to make a face-lift to the kitchen or bathroom.
- Insulation. If your home is drafty, adding insulation will be a big improvement for both the short and long term. Check to see what type (if any) of insulation is in your attic, and decide if you need to install new insulation.
- Tidy up. Every home looks its best when it is clean and decluttered. Marie Kondo is all the rage these days, and with good reason – she makes the task of decluttering attainable. This will benefit everything from your listing photos, open houses, and private showings, so if you only complete one project this winter, make it this one.
Making updates to the interior of the home can add significant value. You may not have the budget or timeline for a complete remodel, but there are low-cost updates you can make before listing your home. Talk with your Realtor about what upgrades will be most beneficial in the process of selling your house.
Planning on listing your home this spring?