BROUGHT TO YOU BY RICH RACINE
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Looking to sell your home and add to your wallet? You don’t have to make drastic improvements or hire a lot of contractors to do so. With some know-how and a little direction, you can DIY and help your house bring in a higher return. Here’s how:
1. Don’t Buy into Market Myths
There’s a lot of misinformation out there for home sellers, so make sure you know what matters and what really doesn’t. For instance, you’ve probably heard that you have to renovate your bathroom and kitchen to sell your home, but this simply isn’t the case. While it is true that buyers tend to pay attention to these spaces, simple, inexpensive upgrades are usually all that is needed. Figuring out what is fact and what isn’t can spare you the expense and annoyance of any unnecessary overhauls.
2. Plan Out Your Projects
Any quality project begins with a proper plan, so make time to get organized. Figure out your budget and then make a list of all of the supplies and tools you will need. Don’t have a lot of tools lying around? Now’s a good time to invest in some basic equipment that will help you out now and later on down the road. Think about how much time you will need from start to finish and make adjustments to your schedule. Last but certainly not least, confirm whether you need a permit to complete the job. You’d be surprised at how many homeowners start projects without the proper permits, only to have issues arise along the way.
3. Sharpen Your Skills
If you’re looking to make improvements around you house, you’ll want to make sure you have the knowledge to do so. Most folks can hammer a nail or wield a paint brush, but if you really want to take your craftsmanship to the next level, try learning a few essential remodeling skills. Figuring out how to replace old caulk or fill in holes can help you add value to the property you are selling and will allow you to perform routine maintenance around your new home. Having home improvement know-how is a boost to confidence and your DIY projects.
4. Practice Your Techniques
When taking on a new DIY project, it’s always best to practice before you get started. As HomeAdvisor notes, “For instance, when installing tile, buy an old table at a thrift store, lay down some guides rods (wooden dowels do the trick) and practice laying it before installing it. Or when painting rooms, start with the smallest area first to see how the paint color looks and to gain some hands-on training before moving on to the kitchen or living room.” By taking a minute or two to get your projects right, you can avoid costly mistakes and save time.
5. Don’t Overlook the Outside
Making improvements to the interior of your home may help during a showing, but you need to get potential buyers out of the car and into your home first, so pay extra attention to the front of your house. Step across the street and take notice of any eyesores or trouble spots. Freshen up faded doors and shutters. Trim the lawn and hedges. Remember, adding curb appeal doesn’t have to add a lot to your budget or schedule. Try these simple tricks to freshen up the front of your house and attract more interest.
Selling your home and getting the most out of the transaction doesn’t have to take a lot of time or money. Major changes are rarely a good idea when trying to sell a home. You can make simple changes yourself to add curb appeal and freshen up the inside of your home, and pull more potential buyers into your property and more dollars into your hands.
Rich Racine of Mill City Realty is a lifelong resident of New Hampshire. He currently lives in Manchester with his wife, daughter, and Old English bulldog. He’s a graduate of Plymouth State University, earning his degree in communication studies, with a focus in business administration. His specialty is helping clients navigate through the process of buying or selling a home. Follow Rich on Facebook, or contact him with questions or to make an appointment: 603-738-0898 or via email: rracine@millcityrealtynh.com