How to add Value to your Home prior to Selling

-Mike Zschunke, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Arizona Properties

The most common question I get from Sellers wanting to sell their home is “How can I add value to my home?” Every time my reply is to Keep It Simple. A Seller will never be able to have the vision of a potential buyers wants and needs. Everyone has their own taste and there will always be something that isn’t quite right in someone else’s eyes.

 

General maintenance items that a new owner will not have to replace right away are always good investments.

1. Of course, here in Arizona, new air conditioners will always add value for resale. A new AC unit can be 50% more efficient than a unit installed just 10 years ago.
2. If the home is older than 20 years it is most likely going to be ready for a new roof very soon. I know that isn’t very exciting but when it comes time to sell, roofs always seem to become a negotiating point.
3. Kitchen and Bathroom remodels do have a great return on investment but again, the Seller will not always be able to match a buyers likes so keep it simple.
4. Fresh paint and Flooring are two of the easiest ways to make your home stand out but you can’t just throw a quick sloppy coat of paint on. Spend the extra money and have it done right. Keep the colors neutral and bright. A good quality paint job will cover slight imperfections that happen over the years but a cheap paint job will bring them out. That new Vinyl “Luxury” tile wood flooring looks nice for about a day but educated buyers will know and expect that it will be needed to replaced soon.
5. Landscaping is a great way to add value with curb appeal. Trim those tired old big trees and plants to let the sunshine in. Clean up the flower beds and nooks and crannies around the house. Pay attention to the driveway and walkways. They should be power-washed and free from stains and cracks.
6. And finally, the number One way to add value to your home is to keep it sparkling clean. I am a bit OCD but every day I am amazed at the dirt and filth that we find in houses of ALL price ranges from $500k to $5M+. I often tell Sellers that once they are done cleaning everything… (even on top of the ceiling fans, behind the fridge, in the window sills, in the garage, and every little corner and top of moldings) let the house sit for a day or two and clean it again from top to bottom again so you get everything you inadvertently missed the first time. It really is the easiest way to add value to any home.    

                                                                                                                            -Mike Zschunke, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Arizona Properties