Selling 101: Mini Remodel Projects

As I mentioned in other parts of this guide, first impressions count, especially since first impressions are now online. People are searching the internet for the perfect home and rule out houses based on what they see online. To this end, we need to prepare your home to leave the best first impression. There are many things that can be done from larger projects such as a kitchen remodel, or a bath remodel, but there are smaller things that can have a good sized impact and don’t cost that much either!

Here are some low(ish) cost items that can have an immediate return:

Paint the front door. Fresh paint on the front door welcomes buyers into the house. But also make sure the lock is easy to use. There isn’t anything like a bad first impression if the lock isn’t easy to use.

New Kitchen and Bath Pulls or Knobs Changing the knobs or pulls on kitchen drawers and bathroom drawers is so minor, yet it can easily freshen up a tired kitchen. This is especially true if the knobs or pulls are dated such as brass or antique brass. Put in something neutral such as black or nickel pulls.

Neutral Paint Colors Every buyer is willing to paint, but seeing a vibrant red paint color just isn’t that appealing. The emotional appeal just doesn’t happen with red versus Benjamin Moore Revere Pewter. Even if the buyer doesn’t like the new color that much, it’s one less distraction.

Countertop Refinishing Believe it or not, this countertop is painted. It used to be a 70’s orange formica. Even though it’s not the same as stone / granite / concrete, again, it’s one less distraction.

Change a couple of light fixtures This can go a long way to help “freshen” up an older house. If you have antique fixtures don’t remove them. I’m talking about the 90’s brass fixtures or antique brass fixtures, or the brass and glass and wood fixtures. Throw them out and put in something more contemporary.