Invite an interior designer over to check out your home. You will probably have to pay a nominal consultation fee, but it will be worth it in the end — if you take the designer’s advice! In an hour, an experienced interior designer can give you plenty of ideas for improvements, both small and large. Small suggested improvements, such as paint color in a bathroom or furniture placement, can go a long way toward improving the look and feel of your home.
Tip 2: Inspect It.
The Orange County real estate market is improving, which means competition is getting tougher. Deteriorating roofs, termite infestation or outdated electrical systems — every detail matters. Hire an inspector to check out the areas of your home that you don’t normally see or consider. They may be able to point out problems that could negatively impact your home’s value but can be easily fixed. Either way, an inspection is required under California law before your house sells so the longer you put off repairs, the more expensive those repairs will be.
Tip 3: Paint, Paint, Paint.
As your interior designer might point out, one of the simplest, most cost-effective home improvement tricks is paint! Freshly painted rooms look clean and updated — and that spells value. Since we’re talking Orange County, don’t be afraid to get a bit ‘trendy’ in smaller rooms, such as a laundry or bathroom. Bring in the new colors and add a splash of it to a wall!
Tip 4: Visualize.
While hiring an interior designer makes things easier for you, don’t be afraid to incorporate your own ideas and inspiration into your ‘refreshed’ home. Inspiration is everywhere: design-oriented magazines, books, TV shows and websites. Tear out or print off the ideas you want to try and chat with your designer about them.
Tip 5: Reduce Energy Costs.
The amount of money you spend each month on energy costs may seem like a fixed amount, but many local utility companies provide free energy audits of their customers’ homes. These reports can show you how to maximize the energy efficiency of your home and help you cut down on costs. With the money you are saving, you can provide other updates to your Orange County home, making it an even more valuable and marketable asset in the long run.
Cheryl Marquis and The Marquis Team have the experience and knowledge it takes to sell your Orange County home in the price range it is worth. Contact Cheryl today to learn more.
For more Orange County real estate news and happenings, follow Cheryl on Twitter @CherylSellsOC or check her out on Facebook at CherylSellsOrangeCounty.
