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WHAT CAN I DO TO INCREASE THE VALUE OF MY HOME PRIOR TO LISTING IT?
Sellers Answers
Overall, a home should always be maintained in good working order. A well maintained home is more satisfying to live in and is less expensive to keep up in the long run. The roofing shingles should be replaced every 25 years or earlier if needed. Flat roofs need to be resurfaced every ten years. The septic system should be cleaned every two years and fields rebuilt when necessary. On average, a septic system that was properly installed and cleaned regularly should last about 30 years. The furnace or boiler should be cleaned and serviced annually and replaced every 30 years or earlier if repairs are not possible.
When it comes time to sell a home, hopefully there are no major repairs to be done. If any are needed, they should be taken care of by the seller as soon as possible. Defective systems can turn away potential buyers, significantly reduce market value, and delay closing if left to the listing stage.
Aside from the above major repairs is the general appearance upgrade. The house should be immaculate inside and out in order to create a good "first impression" when a potential buyer tours the home for the first time.
Start by having a tag sale and/or contribution to a charitable organization. Get rid of toys that your children have outgrown, obsolete computers that are no longer used, old clothes that are seldom if ever worn, old furniture stored in the basement or attic, old cars stored in the side yard, old magazine collections, etc. Above all, clean out your garage bays, attic space, basement, tool shed, closets, pantries, etc. Any excess "stuff" that can''t be sold or given away should be dumped. Keep only the minimum amount of clothing that you have room for and have worn within the last year. Remember rooms look bigger and more comfortable if they are not cluttered.
The second step is to repaint rooms that need it, sand and refinish exposed wood floors if worn, and clean your home thoroughly. Repair or replace any defective appliances, interior or exterior lighting, faucets or other plumbing, etc. If the exterior of your home looks tired, a repaint of the outside would also be justified. Leaks in gutters or drains should be repaired. You want to create the impression with the potential buyer that this home has always been well maintained and there are no problems that the buyer will inherit.
The third step is to review the condition of your lawn and landscaping. Fertilize the lawn and reseed any bare spots. Add flowers and/or shrubs to your gardens to improve the curb appeal.
In order to get the work done quickly and competently, use professional painting, cleaning, and repair services. Get alternative bids and ask for references. The costs will be tax deductible as fixup expenses and will be justified in terms of a higher sale price and a faster sale.
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