Fix these items before you sell your home

If you have a home that is overdue for a renovation, you might be worried that it will be difficult to sell as a "fixer-upper." In fact, you might delay listing your property for that reason. The good news is, you don’t need to fix everything in your home to prepare it for sale. You can be selective and choose only those projects that are most likely to help your home show well and sell quickly.

Here are some projects to consider:

• Repairs. Few things stand out more during home viewings than items that are in obvious need of repairs. These could include minor issues, like a dripping bathroom faucet — as well as major concerns, such as the central air conditioning unit not working. Get these repairs done. Potential buyers are on the lookout for these headaches, and a hot, stuffy house and loud, dripping faucet are dead giveaways. If you're going to list in the winter, it's a good idea to caulk drafty window sills and door jams and fix leaky or clogged gutters as well.

• Painting. Painting is one of the easiest and most affordable DIY projects you can do. Yet the impact it can have on your home is stunning. First impressions are huge for showings, and some rooms are completely transformed by a fresh coat of paint. Don't let potential buyers remember your home for its blemishes but for its beauty instead. Look online at other homes for sale, and make mental notes of freshly painted, inviting rooms that stood out in your mind.

• Kitchens & Bathrooms. Buyers love to see great looking kitchens and bathrooms. In fact, there are even magazines devoted just to those rooms! You don't necessarily need to do a major renovation of these spaces, but a makeover can be a good idea. Consider replacing sinks, countertops and cabinet hardware. Deep clean tubs and showers and consider simply throwing away old shower curtains.

• Floors. If the floors in any of your rooms have become worn and unsightly, look at options for refreshing them. Consider replacing carpeting — or at least shampooing — refinishing hardwood, and having tile and grout cleaned in kitchens and bathrooms. Dirty floors are especially easy to notice if you've already removed some furniture and rugs. Invest in some slip-on shoe covers for visitors and home viewers and leave them in a basket by the front door with a friendly reminder.

• Outdoors. Sometimes you can compensate (a little) for a less-than-ideal interior by sprucing up the outdoor space. Explore ways to improve your deck or patio, walkways and landscaping. Even if your home is older, you can make it more attractive to buyers with any one of these projects. Want more ideas for finding eager buyers for your home? Call today, 218-821-0223, and let our team discuss your home in more detail. We can't wait to hear from you.

Submit

You agree to receive property info, updates, and other resources via email, phone and/or text message. Your wireless carrier may impose charges for messages received. You may withdraw consent anytime. We take your privacy seriously.