It’s a fact—first impressions are everything! Just remember what your reaction was the first time you saw your current home. Whether you noticed the curb appeal, a recent renovation, or just some minor updates, some features likely directly impacted how you viewed the home. So if you’re thinking about selling, your role is now reversed; it’s time to think about what you want the buyers to see at first glance. Though you should consult with your real estate agent to determine what improvements you should make, here are ten inexpensive hacks that will showcase your home’s best features.
Flaunt your home’s exterior
Because a buyer’s decision to purchase a home is often determined by their emotional response, their first look can immediately set the tone, positive or negative. To help your home stand out from others for sale in your neighborhood, consider these tips for sprucing up the outside to really make it pop.
Paint your front door
If your front door needs some TLC, giving it a fresh coat of paint will go a long way toward making a good first impression. Try using a monochromatic color to blend with your home’s exterior paint and trim.
Pressure-wash your exterior
You’d be surprised at how well a good pressure-wash can brighten up your house’s look just by removing dirt and mold. You can hire a professional to do it, or you can rent a pressure-washer from most hardware or home stores.
Repair and paint
Replace damaged shutters, rotted wood, torn screens, cracked windows, and broken locks; a buyer will likely request that these items be repaired anyway. You can save money if you choose to do it yourself or bring in your own trusted contractor or handyman.
Replace exterior fixtures
If your outdoor lights are old, tarnished, or no longer hang properly outside your home, go for an updated look. It’s these little touches that can make a huge difference.
Apply mulch
One of the least expensive upgrades you can do is mulch your gardens. Especially during winter when your lawn and shrubbery are not at their best, this is a perfect hack for creating a nice curb appeal.
Spiff up the interior
The buyer has most likely formed an opinion from their first glance at your home’s exterior appearance—hopefully a positive one—so keep the momentum going as they step through your front door. These minor updates and renovations will give your home a more polished, contemporary look.
Make small bathroom updates
There’s nothing like the feel of a newer-looking bathroom. Of course, you don’t have to break the bank either. Consider replacing the vanity and sink, installing a new shower head, recaulking your shower and tub, or even hanging a new stylish shower curtain.
Update floors and clean carpets
Buyers will undoubtedly notice worn-looking floors. If your hardwood flooring is scratched or faded, consider refinishing or staining them, which is something you could do DIY for a minimal cost. Also, you can replace old and worn carpeting with remnant rolls—a great inexpensive option. If carpeting is not in your budget, hire a professional carpet-cleaning company, or do it yourself, and rent a cleaner from your local hardware store.
Refresh your kitchen
Renovated or updated kitchens are among the rooms that obtain the highest ROI. Putting on new cabinet hardware, refreshing old light fixtures, or even installing a simple, lost-cost backsplash can completely transform the look of your kitchen.
Apply a fresh coat of paint
One of the best ways to give your home an updated, crisp appearance is to apply a fresh coat of paint in your main living areas. Be sure to use neutral colors to appeal to a broader range of buyers.
Replace old shades or curtains and ceiling fans
This can give a room a more open, contemporary look to a room that may otherwise appear drab and outdated. You don’t have to spend a lot of money; most home stores offer a wide selection of modern-looking ceiling fans as well as easy-to-install fashionable shades and curtains.