When you live in a place long enough, it can be hard to see its quirks. We get used to certain things, you know? The chipped paint, the creaky floors, the way the air conditioner shudders in midsummer… These things are just part of our daily lives.
But if you’re thinking about selling your house, it’s time to start finding small ways to add value to it. (Of course, you can do this just because, too! Let your home feel like the best version of itself.)
For instance, if you have pets, pick up a product like Odor Ban to eliminate any unwanted odors from your house. My family has two dogs, and we do this all the time! It’s refreshing for us, and if we ever choose to sell, I’ll rest easy knowing that any stinky smells are gone before showings begin.
If you don’t have pets, you can turn your attention to your garage. Sometimes, I look at ours and sigh. It’s so easy to neglect. But a clean, organized garage communicates that you value your home. It tells potential buyers that you respect your space, giving them a higher perceived value of it. Seriously, a few hours of organizing on a Saturday morning can go a long way.
Another often neglected area of the home is the front door. But having a beautiful, well-decorated entryway can transform a house’s value. It’s estimated that you can add up to $24,000 in value just by upgrading your front door! So, if yours is solid, you can paint it for around $50. Or, if you want to replace it, Home Depot has stunning doors in the $500-$800 range. Even Marketplace sells them, sometimes for as little as $200.
As for your AC, I’d recommend getting a tune-up this summer. It costs less than $30 and gives you peace of mind, especially if you’re preparing to sell your home. No reason to be surprised at inspection time!
And finally, have you considered planting a couple of fruit trees in your yard? I mean, how fun would it be to grow your own apples or peaches?! This is a quick way to enjoy your property and add value for around $200. Plant a couple of trees, and in a few years, you (or the new owners) will get to enjoy the harvest.
Honestly, there’s no shortage of ways to spruce up and add value to your home. (As a realtor, I’ve seen them all!) The important thing is that you pick a starting point and go all in. Your future self will thank you for it.