Let’s admit it, when getting ready to put a home on sale, the fear that it might not sell fast or rake in the amount you expect will often creep up on you. Things get even more real when you begin to imagine what the home inspector report might look like and what buyers will think of it. On the other hand, there’s the good feeling that comes with knowing that there are a few things you can do to attract potential home buyers to your property. Even better than that is the fact that low-cost home improvements exist that you could complete that could perfectly seduce a potential buyer.
Granted, a large-scale remodeling project will certainly raise the value of your home, and buyers will definitely be lured to it, but the process will also break the bank, not to mention that payback isn’t guaranteed. On top of that, prospective buyers might not like your version of remodeling because tastes do differ. Yet the low-cost home improvements are pretty simple. Some you can even carry out on your own and when they are taken collectively, chances are high they could expedite the sale of your property and bring you a reasonable profit from it.
Here’s one that is sure to give the entire house a face-lift: Upgrading Your Lighting
Does your living and dining room have those dull recessed lights? If yes, this is the time to unscrew them and fix a brilliant replacement in their place. Chandeliers would be a great option to consider.
If your other rooms have aged light bulbs, consider swapping them out with new ones that have proper voltage for the kind of fixtures in the room. You may also consider adding energy efficient bulbs and fixtures. This is one of the best ways to make a home more energy efficient and give your home a fresh, updated look!
You may also consider adding more lamps and fixtures such as under cabinet lighting, desk lamps, bedside lamps, accent lighting, and tread lighting – just enough to strategically enhance the space.
Considering that showings often happen at different times of the day, you may want to consider playing up the natural lighting. Have you ever heard a realtor say enthusiastically to a prospective buyer, “you’ll love it, it’s so dark and dreary.” Nope. “Light and airy” is key. Examine your curtains and blinds to ensure they are not impeding what natural light you could have in the room.
Being a key part of curb appeal, exterior lighting also matters, a LOT. Make your walkways well lit and inviting by adding things such as path lighting to create a welcoming impression. And, exterior lighting doesn’t have to break the bank. Solar lights are functional, environmentally conscious, and attractive.
Lastly, note that dark furnishings, flooring, and wall and ceiling colors are known to interfere with room lighting. You could save some cash and get ideas from magazines and your favorite HGTV shows, or if you can afford it, enlist the help of an interior designer. Let them audit these aspects to ensure they are optimized for their function.
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