Jan 13 2008
Fixing before Selling: a good idea?
I ran across an article on MSN giving some suggestions on how to upgrade your home. The article seems to be decent, with a different way of looking at things than your normal fix it first articles. The article is actually from bankrate.com, but since I don’t want to take the time to find the same article again, here is the link to the MSN version. Read on if you just want the highlights.
Making Targeted Improvements
If you are thinking of selling your home, it may be good to upgrade certian features of your home. Depending on the Age of your home, you may find that different things need fixing.
- Pre-60’s : update power for modern appliances, check your pipes, and see if you have a hardwood floor under your carpet you might be able to finish.
- 1960’s : Install double-pane windows, make sure you give terminex a call and get rid of any termites, and change at least the hardware, if not more, on your cabinets.
- 1970’s : This era was known for what many today would call ugly colored appliances, tubs, etc. Make sure your house doesn’t scream vintage 1970’s.
- 1980’s : get rid of your wall paper, update your counter tops.
- 1990’s : upgrade appliances, they are usually at about the end of their useful life, make sure your carpeting is in decent condition.
As with any suggestion list, make sure they make sense for your home. Not everything will apply in all cases. Best of luck prepping your home for the sale. Good luck selling your home. Here are some inexpensive advertising ideas to get you started.