The Small Fixes That Can Add Thousands to Your Home Sale Price

SOURCE: Reality Times

When potential buyers walk through a home, they’re picturing themselves living there. They need to feel an emotional connection from the start or they’re not going to be interested. Small details and upgrades that make a house feel cozy and look easy to maintain can boost your home’s perceived value, encouraging buyers to bid higher because the home just feels right. Below are some upgrades that seem small but have a big impact. 

1. Gutter guards

Nobody looks forward to cleaning gutters and that’s why the job often gets delayed or ignored entirely. In addition to being time-consuming it’s not easy or safe to clean gutters. Cleaning gutters requires climbing a tall ladder, often on uneven ground, while tugging at clumps of wet leaves that throw you off balance. Even trained professionals have accidents.

Having gutter guards installed eliminates this chore. They keep leaves and debris out of your gutters, prevent clogs, and ensure rainwater and snowmelt drain properly. When potential buyers see gutter guards installed, it reassures them that routine maintenance won’t require risking injury and there’s less risk of foundational damage from water. It creates an effortless feeling regarding seasonal upkeep and makes your property more attractive. 

2. Mulch and weed barriers

Homes with high curb appeal tend to sell for 7% more than similar properties with unpleasant exteriors. But you don’t need to perform extensive renovations to benefit. One commonly overlooked curb appeal booster is the power of mulch and weed barriers. A well-kept yard sets the tone for how buyers perceive the rest of a property and suggests the entire property is cared for. Adding mulch to garden beds and other landscaped areas seems small but it really boosts aesthetics. Mulch makes plants pop and makes landscaping look neatly manicured. Compared to other upgrades, mulch and weed barriers are a cheap way to boost curb appeal fast.  

Buyers are drawn to yards that look good without requiring endless hours of weeding and heavy maintenance. A mulched yard tells buyers that upkeep is minimal and that increases their perception of your home’s value. 

3. Vinyl fencing 

A leaning, faded, or rotting fence tells buyers they’re going to have yet another expensive repair the minute they buy the property. The easiest way to fix this is to replace your fence with low-maintenance vinyl fencing. Buyers prefer homes with fences that don’t require constant painting or patching. If they have kids, a sturdy fence is a must. Since vinyl fencing resists rot and insects, it’s a major perk when compared to homes with aging wooden fences. 

4. Outdoor lighting for style and security

Outdoor lighting on timers is a subtle feature with a big impact on aesthetics and value perception. It’s an affordable way to add elegance that doesn’t require upkeep. Many buyers drive by potential properties at night, and a well-lit exterior makes a home stand out. 

Proper outdoor lighting also makes a home feel safe and inviting. Timed lighting provides peace of mind by deterring intruders and providing a sense of safety. According to crime prevention studies, homes with good outdoor lighting experience 39% fewer break-ins. 

5. Composite decking

If you’re going to replace or rebuild your deck, you may as well go for composite decking. Wood looks great when it’s new but it quickly fades and stains. Composite decking is a low-maintenance alternative that lasts much longer and won’t turn into a sanding and sealing project. 

Composite decks don’t need to be sanded, painted, stained, or sealed like wood. They resist rot and insects, don’t fade, and look good for a long time. All you need is soap and water to clean a composite deck.

6. Small interior upgrades

It’s often the smallest details that make the biggest impression. You can increase the perceived value of your home by upgrading your cabinets with soft-close hinges, and doors and drawers that don’t slam shut. Upgrading hinges is a small project that can contribute to a larger return.

7. Whole-home surge protection

Electrical surges can destroy appliances and home electronics. Most homeowners think a power strip is enough protection but serious surges caused by lightning strikes, grid failures, and faulty appliances can overwhelm cheap devices. A whole-home surge protector installed at the electrical panel will shield the entire property. For buyers who want peace of mind, this is a gem of an upgrade.

Small upgrades make a big impact

You don’t need dramatic renovations to get higher bids. Sometimes the smallest upgrades that create a hassle-free home will do the trick. When buyers feel confident they aren’t about to inherit hidden projects, they’re willing to pay a little more. Investing in small upgrades now can pay off in the form of extra cash at closing.

SOURCE: Reality Times