If you want to maximize the value of your house, you should keep it in top shape. You may also want to remodel or modernize certain rooms. Whether you are looking to make a major change to your home or just want to preserve it for future buyers, check out our list of the do’s and don’ts of home maintenance.
Do:
- Keep your home clean
Even if your house looks gorgeous on the outside, buyers will be turned off by excessive dirt and clutter. Cleaning your home is a free, easy way to improve its value on the open market.
- Document everything
Once your home is on the market, you will have to answer a lot of questions about it. Even things that may not seem that important to you, such as the age of the oven, may be key factors for some potential buyers. So, whether you are making a big or small change to your home, be sure to keep detailed notes.
- Get your home inspected frequently
It is standard practice to have your home inspected right before you plan to sell it. Yet when you are dealing with the stress of moving and buying a new home, the last thing you want to deal with is fixing faulty plumbing or wiring in your current residence. Experts thus recommend getting an inspection every three to five years to stay on top of needed repairs.
Don’t:
- Overcustomize
You may love bright yellow carpet or polka dot wallpaper. But you will likely have trouble selling a home with these features. If you do decide to install any crazy flooring or décor, make sure it can be easily removed once it’s time to put the home on the market.
- Use trendy designs
While a certain design element may be really cool at the time of your remodel, you have to remember that many trends don’t last. By the time you are ready to sell your home, your trendy upgrade may be completely out of style. So, stick to classic features that will look good in any era.
- Wait too long to fix any problems
If you do notice any issues with your home, fix them immediately rather than waiting until you are ready to sell your home. This can also help you stay on top of small problems before they become large.
Selling a home doesn’t have to be a difficult process. If you follow these tips, you should be able to get the best value for your house.