Small Changes Make a Difference

I showed a house recently that had a great open floor plan. The kitchen was huge and opened into a family room. There was plenty of space to socialize, lots of storage areas and a large lot. Many of the floors were hardwood. The carpet was neutral and in good shape.

But I feel there are a few easy changes that the sellers could make that would help them sell their house faster and for more money. First, neutralize the wall colors with earth colors. There was sponge painting and ragged walls in three rooms. While they were done well, ragged walls are an individual taste and not appreciated by all buyers. It would be better to paint over them or at least better not to have so many ragged walls.

Second, the kitchen had two appliances that were brushed nickel and two that were not. It is better to have matching appliances. The brushed nickel choice is great, but it is better to buy all of the appliances with the same surfaces.

Lastly, the knobs on the kitchen cabinets needed simple modernizing. It would be inexpensive to unscrew the porcelain knobs and replace with brushed nickel.

It's amazing what simple changes can be made and can make a difference.
Cost:
Paint, about $50
Knobs for the kitchen, approximately $2/each, so less than $100
New stove and microwave: Depends on the brand and the bells and whistles, and these items would be the biggest investment, probably about $800 for both.

So, all these changes would be less than $1,000. If you can't afford them, consider buying at Lowe's or Home Depot and charge with their program that offers 12 to 18 months to repay. Then when your house closes, pay off the bill. I really feel this investment would help you get a higher sales price for your house and pay back your investment.