Are you considering listing your South Orange County home with an experienced real estate agent, such as Cheryl Marquis of Altera Properties? But are you worried that you might have to spend too much money getting your lovely OC home in tip-top shape before you open it to potential buyers? If so, you are not alone. While the details are very important when it comes to getting the most money for your family home, in this economy we all have to be realistic about what we can spend.
I’ve put together a few ways you can upgrade and / or put finishing touches on your Orange County house for little or no cost — and trust me, potential buyers will appreciate your hard work!
1. Details. Make sure your home is spic and span clean and clutter-free. While you might like your salt shaker / gnome / picture frame collection, chances are your potential buyer does not. This is nothing against your collection, it simply because your prized possessions do not hold the special meanings to a stranger that they hold to you. It’s a very good idea to put some of this ‘clutter’ into storage while your home is on the market — You can bring it back out when you move into your new Orange County pad! Along the same vein, make sure your tabletops, countertops, and bathrooms look spotless! Buyers are less likely to offer top dollar for a dirty residence; even it if it is Orange County!
2. Floors. Most buyers prefer hardwood floors. Hardwoods can run around $5 to $15 per square foot, plus installation. If that’s out of your price range, look to more budget-friendly options like vinyl or bamboo.
3. Lighting. New lighting fixtures are a quick way to create ambiance and a ‘pricey home’ look. Avoid brass fixtures and look to brushed nickel, chrome, and rust models for a contemporary, classy feel. Under-cabinet lighting in the kitchen makes countertops sparkle and can be very affordable. Also, clean your windows and allow the sun to naturally lighten up your home.
4. Paint. Lighter paint colors, such as pale yellow or light green or beige, can create the illusion of a large, open-spaced room — a feature every interested buyer wants to see in a potential home! A few gallons of the right paint shade can go a long way in making your OC home look more chic for a very reasonable amount of money.
It’s time to get started! With cost-saving tips like these, you will be turning potential buyers away at the door, without having to break the bank. Call Cheryl today for more information on how you can get the best price for your South Orange County home!
