Author: silvistermasi

Many home sellers overlook easy and relatively inexpensive fixes and upgrades that not only increase visual appeal, but may also add real value to a home’s selling price. While major remodeling is costly and may not address the needs and tastes of prospective buyers, these maintenance and update suggestions have universal appeal and may help a home sell more quickly – and for a better price.

• The kitchen and bathrooms must get a deep cleaning. Sellers should consider having a cleaning company that offers “move in / move out” cleaning services to do the job.
• If kitchen cabinet exteriors are in bad shape, refacing may be an option. Far less expensive than new cabinetry, refacing can give old and worn cabinets new life and can visually update a kitchen. Even new paint can do wonders to boost that first impression.
• Consider replacing kitchen or bathroom counters with a neutral colored laminate surface if the current material is badly worn or stained. This gives everything a fresh look and prevents potential buyers from focusing on an eyesore.
• A stylish new kitchen faucet doesn’t have to cost a lot and can instantly update the look of the room. In the bathroom, new updated faucets and towel bars will have a similar effect.
• Fresh paint on the walls and ceilings will do wonders for all rooms in the house. Stick to neutral tones so buyers aren’t distracted by colors that make a statement. They’ll be able to imagine themselves and their furniture in the space much more easily.
• Take a look at the doorknobs and handle sets of the interior doors. If the hardware is dated, unmatched or otherwise doesn’t look its best, consider replacements. There are many attractive hardware styles available today that won’t break the bank.
• If carpet is covering hardwood floors, consider having it removed to expose the hardwood flooring. Hardwood floors are desirable, so show them off! If the carpet is going to stay, it should be thoroughly cleaned.

Homeowners should save major remodeling projects – and the significant budget required – for their new home, not the one they are about to sell. But implementing some of the steps above can increase the appeal to prospective buyers without a huge investment in time or money.

The charms of living in an older home can be many – history, style, craftsmanship, quirks. But there’s no denying that living in such a home has its challenges. Maintenance can be tricky and expensive, especially if certain systems and features have been neglected over the years. Let’s take a look at some common situations found in many older homes:

• Energy inefficiency is probably the number one issue with older homes. Most older homes were constructed with single-pane windows; if these windows are still in use, they likely don’t fit very well. Replacement windows can be very expensive, but will contribute immensely to reduced energy use and lower heating and cooling costs. Most replacement windows are available in several styles and at different price points, so finding ones that suit the look of an older home is easier than ever.
• Like single-pane windows, poor insulation will also waste energy and money – and make living in the home uncomfortable. The most important and easiest area of the home to insulate is the attic, but walls and floors above ventilated crawlspaces should be insulated as well if possible. The attic may already have insulation but it may be inadequate by current standards.
• If the home has older water pipes, they should be checked to identify the material and determine if they need to be replaced. Some older materials such as galvanized steel, iron, and even lead are still in use today even though new construction doesn’t allow them. Replacement options include copper and CPVC piping.
• Outdated electrical systems can still sometimes be found in older homes and may not only be dangerous, they can make the house uninsurable in some situations. Even if no danger is present, we use much more electricity in our homes today and the capacity of older systems may be inadequate. Only a qualified electrician should attempt any repairs or updates to a home’s electrical system.

With careful maintenance and a nod to history, older homes can be comfortable, stylish, and even energy efficient in the right hands.