10 Tips To Build Instant Equity in Your Home
October 31st, 20081. Powerwash the exterior (Easy To Use Machine Rentals Run About $65 Daily).
2. Add color to your landscape with seasonal flowers & small shrubs. Red geraniums in pots are wonderful for tight spaces.
3. Paint your fascia a new complimentary contrasting color.
4. If your windows look tired, use new trim color here too. (An easy trick is to coat window glass w/car wax instead of taping. Paint in half the time! When wax is dry, it scrapes off easily while making your windows look great).
5. Clean & regrout kitchen counter and bath tiles if needed. This is a fast fix-up & looks like a million!
6. Replace worn out carpet with new carpet blocks that can be replaced one piece at a time! These are fun and durable too. It allows you to change your look when you get tired of the “same old” flooring while “repurposing” it for other areas of your home if needed.
7. Paint one accent wall in the major rooms of your home. Anchor a special piece of furniture, art and plant there for a focal point without being overdone. I did this for my home office with some new calligraphy and a built-in desk. It not only looks beautiful, but I love working in an environment that feels as good as it looks.
8. Add or replace existing moulding in your living room. This makes a subtle but distinct difference and adds instant value.
9. Create an outdoor “living” room with vines, plants and accent flower baskets or hanging pots. Add a small cafe’ table & chair set if you have even a tiny space so you can enjoy your additional square feet. You could add a small portable fire pit as well if it’s allowed in your neighborhood. This is a great place to unwind after a long day or on the weekends.
10. Do a small neighborhood project that lifts everyone’s spirits and home values! Clean an empty lot, rally for a small pocket park, help an elderly neighbor tidy her yard, paint someone’s front door as a gift. You’ll be improving your neighborhood and your home value while doing good works too!
Here’s a Bonus Tip: Buy Quality New Faucets For Every Sink, Tub & Shower In Your Home. I’ve seen this add a surprising “Wow” factor to otherwise generic kitchens & baths. When it comes time to sell, this can make a real difference! (Also, if granite’s not in the budget for counter tops, try granite tiles which cost much less but still get positive response). You’ve just added alot of equity for a little out of pocket. Happy Investing!