I'm sort of stuck between wanting to improve it to make it easier to sell, but not wanting to invest time or money into something I won't get back out of it.
Posted Sep 9, 2014, 2:48 PM UTC
I've been told by people in real estate that it's better to invest in your home and fix it up several years prior to selling it, then it is to let it go to shit and then just ask for a lower price. The reasoning is that people don't want to buy your problems, and if they can find any reason to start chipping away at your asking price, they will. Furthermore, you get to live in a better house for several years.
The house isn't a complete dump, but at the same time nothing is 'new'.
What upgrades do you think would be the biggest bang for the buck? Windows, carpet, cabinets, etc?
I am not a carpenter or anything like that, but windows for sure...if your windows are leaky and you feel the wind, then get them changed, because that relates to your energy bill. And a shitty driveway with weeds busting through just looks terrible. That's all I got.
Go up and down the street looking for shitty neighbours with cars parked on the front lawn, shitty grass, etc.
Have a good read of the local bylaws, and start making calls to the bylaw enforcement people. Seriously, a neighbourhood with cars on blocks in the front yard, shitty lawns with weeds everywhere, etc, will lower the price you will get for your house.
Don't bother with flooring or paint. Most buyers will replace / repaint anyways. Look towards the kitchen and bathrooms. Update or remodel that. Nice landscaping. Insulated windows. Nice door knobs. Crown molding and baseboards. Updated lighting fixtures. If needed, new heating / cooling units.
All of the aforementioned items are what catches a buyers eye. Source: home owner X 3.
Good luck!!
You can pay an inspector like a hundred bucks or so to come out and do what they would do if you were actually selling. Have them give you the full report but specifically walk around and talk with them and see what items they would say would HAVE to be changed or fixed etc. Notably, you want to pay attention to the roof and foundation first imo, then insulation and plumbing. Most likely you went through this process with some inspector when you purchased the home so you know what I am talking about, and can probably find a cheap guy if you contact your City Hall code department.
keep a clean toilet
I feel like there's a story here...
went looking for a house, shit stains in toilet bowl, woman said we are not filthy people, instantly left.
Clear the place of dust
Make sure to repaint the place
Fix any glaring issues
If you find a trap door to a secret basement dungeon, make sure to clear out the inevitable skeletons you'll encounter