If you own a home, you’ve likely either made some changes over the years or you will.

For many homeowners who are considering selling their house, the question is, “What upgrades should we make before putting our property on the market?”

The short answer is, “it depends.”

The biggest factors in deciding which home improvements to make are your home’s current condition and your time frame for moving.

For the sake of this article, we will assume your home is in average to good condition and that it needs mostly cosmetic improvements to help it sell.

Selling in the next three to six months.

If you are selling in the short term, you should avoid any major upgrades unless your house is in disrepair.

While a major bathroom or kitchen renovation will immediately make your home more saleable, it is unlikely you’ll get a full return on your investment until your home has had a chance to appreciate in value.

Painting in light, neutral colors – Agreeable Gray from Sherwin Williams is a popular choice – refinishing hardwoods, and replacing worn out carpet will likely get you the most bang for your buck.

Changing out hardware like door knobs, locks and handles can effectively make a dated home look more current for a reasonable cost. Power washing your home’s exterior and sprucing up the landscaping will also go a long way to improving curb appeal.

Selling in one or two years

If you know you have a year or two before you’ll be ready to sell, i.e., you’re counting the days till Cuthbertson’s 2020 graduation, then you might want to consider investing in a larger renovation project.

Aside from adding heated square footage to your home, kitchen and master bathroom upgrades almost always get the most bang for the buck.

When it comes to kitchens, just think of the 3 C’s.  Cabinets, counters, and cook tops.

For bathroom remodels, seamless walk in showers are popular, as are marble or granite countertops, modern vanities, mirror frames, and tile.

Of course, you’ll want to be sure your contractor acquires the necessary permits for any major renovations.

Selling several years from now.

For those who plan on staying put for a while but will eventually sell, I recommend making upgrades and improvements that you will get the most use and enjoyment out of.

Start thinking patios and outdoor kitchens.  Screen in your covered porch.  Install heated floors in the bathrooms.

Keep in mind that styles and preferences change, so what’s in vogue now may not be popular three to five years from now and most certainly will not be current in 2025 and beyond.

You may find yourself renovating or remodeling again before it’s time to sell, and that’s okay.

If you’re considering renovating your home for a future sale, or if your home is ready to go to market, you can always count on me, Jimmy Grappone, for honest, unfiltered, and reliable service and advice.  Why else would they call me Waxhaw’s Real Estate Guy?

JGrappone@SkyecroftRealtyGroup.com | (980) 298-9385