Are you looking to sell your home? If so, then it’s time to start thinking about the renovations you should do. Whether you’re looking for some small updates or a major overhaul, here are 7 home renovations every homeowner should do before selling!
Replace Your Doors and Windows
Even if they look fine from the outside, chances are that the insides have been worn down over time by things like temperature changes and drafts. Replacing old windows with energy-efficient ones can make a huge difference in how much money you spend on utilities every year while also making your home feel more comfortable overall. Meanwhile, replacing old doors means not only will your house be warmer during the winter months but it’ll also help keep out pesky bugs that might be in the neighborhood.
After the roof and the color of your house, doors and windows are the most noticeable part of your house. That’s why when you are thinking of selling your home fast, you should really consider replacing the ones that are there. Replacing doors and windows is very inexpensive these days, but it can make your house look new!
Improve Energy Efficiency
Replacing windows and doors may not be enough to guarantee you meeting energy efficiency standards set out by ENERGY STAR requirements if they haven’t been updated in long while so consider having them replaced with high-performance units. The same goes for appliances if you have older ones sitting around dust or if their condition affects their performance. Replacing appliances such as the stove and refrigerator is a must if you want to attract buyers who prefer homes with modern conveniences. These appliances aren’t expensive and you can buy a lot of them without worrying about the budget! The better models will save you money in the long run as well as improve the quality of your daily life.
Clean Your Gutters
The purpose of gutters is to collect rainwater and direct it away from your house, but you shouldn’t just assume that they’re up to their task. Clogged gutters are a common cause for roof leaks which can be expensive fixes if it happens to damage any parts of your home’s structure. Having clean gutters will ensure that water flows properly so you don’t have to worry about water or ice dams forming due to clogs or improperly draining gutters failing under the weight of too much snow.
Also, you don’t wish for any buyer to arrive on a rainy day and see the consequences of your bad gutters. That’s why it’s crucial to maintain your gutters and make sure that they’re in good condition before you list your house for sale. It further will give buyers a better idea of how well you’ve taken care of your home.
Fix Cracks in Your Foundation
If you’ve noticed cracks around your windows or doors, then there might be an underlying issue with your foundation that requires attention before you sell. The best way to determine if your foundation is cracked or crumbling is by having a contractor come out and inspect it for you, but if that’s not an option then it’s up to you to determine the severity of the cracks. If there are any gaps between joints, concrete may be falling out which can make your house more susceptible to water damage over time due to leaks. If this is the case don’t hesitate to contact a contractor to get the problem fixed because you can’t sell your house in that condition.
Add a Fence
Not all homes can benefit from having a fence, but if your yard is big enough and you have the money to spare for it, then adding one before selling will give your home an extra bit of curb appeal. A nice fence can help your home look organized and create some space between your house, the road, neighbors’ houses, etc. Trust us, potential buyers will appreciate having their own space to do whatever they please as opposed to looking into someone else’s backyard!
Fix Leaky Pipes
One of those things that go unnoticed until you start seeing water stains on the ceilings or floors below them. If not attended to quickly and correctly with professional help, leaky pipes will cause even more damage than just dripping water day in and day out which means you’ll be shelling out money for expensive repairs once again after selling your home.
Keep in mind that this doesn’t mean you need to make overly expensive repairs like replacing copper pipes with brand new steel ones, but it will take some time if your leaks are coming from multiple locations. If you’re not into DIY projects that require special tools and skills then hiring a plumber is probably the best solution for you considering how many potential buyers will love to see that you’ve already made the effort of repairing something that would normally be an expensive fix.
Update Your Kitchen
If your kitchen hasn’t been renovated since the ’70s, then it might be time to start looking for cabinet doors and countertops that match more up-to-date styles. Not only will renovating your kitchen make cooking a much easier experience but it’ll also help sell your house faster by giving it an updated look which is currently sought after in many home renovations.
The kitchen and dining area are some of the most important parts of a home, so it’s crucial to give them attention before selling. If you’re not into designing, you can look up some ideas online or even get someone to decorate these areas for you before listing your house.
The 7 home renovations we recommend doing before selling is just a start. There are many more that can be done to improve the energy efficiency of your house, add curb appeal with an addition like a fence or landscaping, and make life easier for you when it comes time to sell by improving comfort levels inside your house. All in all, the best way to determine what you need most from these types of additions is through research on how other homes have been renovated successfully in the past so don’t hesitate to consult professionals about any questions you may have!
