26 Low Cost Home Improvements That Add Value to Your Home !

Tips and Pics for Sellers Looking To Spruce Things Up for Buyers

Call The Somers 215-400-2620, RE/MAX Access, Northern Liberties, Philadelphia

As a Realtor, there is nothing more frustrating than standing in the pouring rain and struggling with a stubborn lock while the prospective buyers get drenched. Or wanting to show off  the beautiful brick paver patio while stepping over Fido’s land mines. You know what I am talking about! Do not think that buyers do not open closets, look at your chatchka, or critique your choice of wall color. They do! A buyer formulates their opinion of a home within the first few minutes of their visit. Your house guests do the very same. In the spirit of the current economy and being aware that remodeling may not be in the stars for you right now, we have compiled a list of 26 low cost home improvements that will add value to your home and create a positive lasting impression on prospective buyers and house guests.

26 Low Cost Home Improvements

(Photos below are examples of areas that need work next to photo samples of homes that have been improved)

1) Clean it up by removing leaves, stray branches, trash, weeds, broken furniture, etc.

2) Adding some plants or exterior pottery for color.

3) Mulch where you have dirt and weeds and around trees and shrubs.

4) Paint or touch up areas around the entrance and front door especially if the paint is chipped.

5) Pick up dog doodie, toys, tires, or or anything else that does not belong in the yard.

6) De-clutter !  Bag it ! Box it ! Donate it ! Re-gift it ! Trash it !

7) Fix the doorbell and locks that do not work or are stubborn.

8) Shampoo rugs, replace, or remove rugs to expose hardwood floors.

9) Follow the “No More Than 3 Rule” meaning no more than 3 decorative items on a surface.

10) Add lights and replace bulbs to brighten dark areas.

11) Put the lid down and lose the fuzzy toilet seat cover ensembles. Less is more even if the bath is a bit dated.

12) Make the beds because it looks good.

13) Change cat litter and add a scented plug-in so it smells good.

14) Add a mirror to any room or hall to create the illusion of space.

15) Add inexpensive items such as light fixtures, white switch plates, and new hardware.

16) Remove all clutter on work spaces and store the blender, mixer, and canisters out of sight.

17) Keep the sink, tub and surfaces clean and put away dishes.

18) Think Martha Stewart and put linens on shabby tables for a fresh seasonal look.

19) Remove broken furniture to create more space.

20) Straighten up your closets and organize them to maximize the closet space.

21) New faucets and shower head in the kitchen and bath can make a big difference.

22) Replace ripped window screens and doors and if you are handy tackle the bigger project yourself.

23) Fix closets that do not open or close properly or oil the hinges if they squeak.

24) Replace broken windows, cabinetry, and hardware.

25) Repair all leaky plumbing, drippy faucets, and shower heads.

26) Get rid of outdated wallpaper and add a fresh coat of neutral color paint on the walls with bright white trim.

The key to successfully preparing a home for a "spruce-up" is to tackle one room or project at a time. Make a list and prioritize the projects. Determine how much money you can comfortably spend. Then limit the dollar amount you want to spend for each project in order to stay within your budget. For supplies and bargains we suggest shopping on-line at Overstock and Craigslist. We also find great values at Target and TJ Maxx. We thoughtful chose photos above of homes that are not "show case" material in order to drive the point home, a little elbow grease goes a long way. There are so many home improvements that add value to your home. These 26 tips for sellers looking to spruce things up for buyers can be used by anyone looking to improve the the look and feel of their home.

If you want a laugh, you may want to check out this episode "Leslie's House" on NBS's  Parks and Recreation. Leslie needs to spruce things up at her house to impress her date by throwing an elaborate dinner party.