Renovations Add Value

Renovatons Add Value

Whether renovating for yourself... for long term use, or in contemplation of selling, it is important to know where you should start and which items will offer a payback.

Bathrooms and kitchens are always at the top of any list, and they are often the rooms that make the decision when buyers are comparing homes. However, never underestimate the value of a simple paint job to improve the appearance of a house.

When doing renovations, it is wise not to overspend (or under spend either) and be aware of current trends. The best advise is to hire a contractor or a specialist and do some comparison shopping first. For further information concerning contractors, please visit our Concierge Services so that we can provide you with our choice companies.

Following we have outlined a few of the current trends; some information with respect to the top three improvements in terms of payback and a few tips to assist you in getting your home ready for showing in those areas.

This is the "top 10 list" according to the appraisal institute of Canada (as of the date of their most recent on line report).

Payback Potential	Trends
Painting and décor, interior 73%	Main floor laundry room
Kitchen renovation 72%	Ground floor home office
Bathroom renovation 68%	Hardwood flooring upgrade in kitchen
Painting, exterior 65%	Whirlpool bath separate from shower
Flooring upgrades 62%	Built-in kitchen appliances
Window/door replacement 57%	Addition of kitchen cooking island
Main floor family room addition 51%	Non-neutral interior paint colors (be careful for resale
Fireplace addition 50%	"Smart" house wiring
Basement renovation 49%	Home theatre room
Furnace/ heating system replacement 48%	Skylights

Painting & Décor (interior)

You may have already read our article about House Dressing or the check list for Preparing your home for showing, but once again we will mention that one of the most important thing to do when getting your home ready for sale is to ensure that it is clean, uncluttered and a bright coat of paint will appeal to the most number of purchasers. Potential buyers are then in a position to visual their own belongings in the home without being distracted by strong colors or clutter etc.

Each house is unique however and we would be happy to discuss and advise on your specific situation.

The "Spruce-Up" for resale purposes

This option may only cost a few hundred dollars and a few hours of your time. Use this as a check list in getting your home ready.

    Clean thoroughly. This means removing mould, mildew, cleaning grout , glass porcelain and tile.
    Give the room a fresh coat of paint.. in a bright color, preferably white or eggshell to make it appear larger.
    Have carpets cleaned.
    Purchase plastic trays and boxes to remove personal belongings from site, so a potential purchaser can visualize their things in stead. Linoleum, a scratched or broken mirror, stained soap dish etc. Maybe the cabinet knobs would add a new look.
    Organize drawers and shelves. Use some of those plastic trays for brushes etc.
    Add finishing touches in the bathroom with a new soap dish, a new bar of soap, a new shower curtain and towels. Does the curtain rod or rings need to be replaced?

After these things are completed our "House Dressing Service" could come in handy. Perhaps your home would take on a new look with some of the following items;

    Slip covers to hide worn or soiled fabric on chairs and couches
    Curtain rods and curtains to match the covers
    Cushions to compliment the décor
    Area rugs to ad some pizzazz or warmth
    A few extra pictures or mirrors
    Plants and flowers to finish it off

If your home needs more than the basic "spruce up" or you would like to do a more in depth renovation, contact us and we will help you find a good renovations specialist.

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Renovations Add Value