Profiting from Selling Your Real Estate - Inexpensive Improvements that Pay Off

Selling your home is always stressful, especially when you realize that you may have to invest some money in your house to get the most out of selling it. Real estate specialists will tell you, however, that you can often improve your profits with some simple, inexpensive steps that are relatively low cost. Neatness is one of the most important things prospective buyers notice when looking at property, so be sure everything is tidy, from the yard to the garage. This means keeping weeds pulled, the lawn mowed and toys tucked out of site. Your garage should also be thoroughly cleaned, with tools stored properly and dirt swept away.

If you don't usually have a green thumb, invest in some new outdoor plants that you can put around the entrance to give an inviting feel. If you don't have a garden area, put out potted flowering plants to add a touch of color. The first impression is a lasting one, so put a fresh coat of paint or stain on the front door and hang a seasonal wreath or add an attractive door knocker. Be sure you've had the house's trim painted recently (or do it yourself) and clean out all gutters and downspouts.

Indoor repairs are also very important - especially ones that may not be urgent, but would strike potential buyers as annoyances they don't want to take care of as soon as they move in. Dripping faucets, creaking door hinges and chipped trim are all features that will jump out if you don't take care of them, and none of them will cost more than a few hours and a few dollars to repair. A real estate sale is often lost or won on such details.

Cosmetic changes that can really improve the value of your home for relatively small cash are always a good idea. One of the best returns on your money comes from painting. Sure, some buyers may repaint when they move in anyway, but fresh, clean walls in light neutral colors brighten the rooms and make the whole house seem fresher and cleaner. Adding crown molding to key rooms such as the living room and dining room also adds real personality and richness to a room for very little cost. Simply purchase pre-cut molding and nail-gun into place, then paint in a contrasting shade from the walls (matching it to the window trim) to make the room really stand out.

Consider switching out fixtures in the kitchen and bathroom if yours are dated or pitted with age. You can find great looking, stylish fixtures in a variety of finishes on sale at large home improvement stores throughout the year. The right fixtures can change the whole look of a bathroom or kitchen.

If you have carpeting, have it cleaned by a professional or, if it's in really bad shape consider replacing it. Although this is a bit pricey, you can find excellent deals on remnants for smaller rooms with a bit of shopping around. Hardwood and tile floors should be thoroughly cleaned and buffed or polished so that they shine. Scuffs and a dulled finish hint that you haven't taken proper care, and may put buyers off.

A lot of people forget about cleaning their windows before showing their house. It may be a chore to do, but it's worth the time and effort - sparkling glass makes even older windows seem newer, and makes the house seem clean and bright. The same goes for cleaning light fixtures thoroughly - take them down and polish all of the pieces and make sure that you replace any burnt-out bulbs. Other areas to clean that can be easily overlooked include the air returns and any vents for heating or air conditioning, which should be vacuumed thoroughly. Home buyers will want to take a look at the furnace, hot water heater and air conditioning unit. Take a look at yours - are they covered in dirt and surrounded by clutter? If they are, clear the area and clean everything completely so that the impression is one of clean, efficient appliances.

Finally, when you are ready to show your home, set the stage. Put out fresh flowers in the family room, place a bowl of fresh fruit on the kitchen table and make sure all of the rooms are brightly lit. A house that looks appealing and comfortable to potential buyers will sell much quicker than real estate that looks sterile and empty - make it look like a home, not a hotel room. If you keep these simple steps in mind, you'll soon sell your real estate for top dollar.


For more real estate selling information, visit http://www.1st-real-estate.com