The snow has melted, and the sun is out. In Boston, Springtime is the best time to start making those home upgrades and targeting any deferred maintenance, especially if you're looking to add extra value to your asset before listing it for sale. If you’re thinking of listing soon, it’s best to act quickly. Spring is the season when properties present their best and buyers are out in hoards.
To help you prepare your home for sale – or just to give you tips on upgrades you can do to increase your asset's long-term value – we have compiled a list of the top upgrades to increase value.
#1 Address deferred maintenance.
Now, you may be thinking, "I take excellent care of my property! There is no deferred maintenance." And, of course, you could be correct. However, as time passes, many owners forgivably but easily overlook details.
It's always good to periodically have your home inspected and have any necessary repairs made directly to increase its longevity. For example, consider the condition of your roof. If you know it's getting near the end of its life, have it inspected and repaired or replaced as necessary. Additionally, if your driveway shows age with cracks, look into having it re-sealed or re-paved.
#2 Create a home office.
With the effects of the pandemic, home offices are highly requested features from buyers and a massive value-add to a property. If you have the extra space, create a designated home office, and consider adding tech elements like fiberoptic internet, smart lighting, and additional electrical points.
#3 Repaint your property’s exterior.
Dated colors or faded paint can heavily impact a home's presentation. Giving the exterior a fresh coat of paint will dramatically improve its curb appeal, which is significant in determining a property's value. Potential sellers need to remember that first impressions matter, and you want buyers to fall in love before they even step foot in your house.
#4 Upgrade your kitchen.
Undoubtedly the kitchen is one of the most looked at rooms by buyers. If you've been living in a dated kitchen and are looking to add some serious value to your home, it's probably time to make the investment. Kitchen renovations become expensive quickly, but they also can have a huge return on investment. Bringing a kitchen into the modern era will level up the entire presentation of your property and draw an entirely different pool of buyers.
#5 Add an outdoor living space.
As it warms up, buyers start thinking about where they will entertain outdoors. Whether you have a small or large budget, you can add significant value to a property by creating outdoor living and entertaining spaces. This can be as simple as a small patio or flashy as an outdoor kitchen. Consider your budget and how you can make your yard an outdoor oasis.
What will add the most value to a property is highly dependent on the individual asset and area. So if you're preparing to list your property for sale in the coming months, get in touch with a member of our team. We will be happy to walk through your home to advise on what specific improvements you can make that buyers will love and which will add the most value.
