Those Non-Updated Items Send a Message to Buyers: CHEAP!
I read a recent blog on Inman News by Mary Umberger where she discussed the horrible impressions given to potential buyers when homeowners don't update outdated decor items. Inevitably, buyers' eyes gravitate toward ugly, overly shiny, tacky, brassy light fixtures, doorknobs, light switch plates, and think "CHEAP"!
No kidding! When done litttle by little, changing out ugly door knobs & hardware and light fixtures, for the now fashionable oil-rubbed dark bronze or nickle finishes, it will make a remarkable difference... at a reasonable price. This small change provides a quiet, toned down elegance. Polished brass is quite out!
Dark-toned fixtures and hardware at work. Photo/Sea Gull Lighting.
In a smaller home, these changes can be done in a day for about $300 - $400 in materials, if you do it yourself. If you're not so handy, incorporate the help of a friend and in exchange, fix them a nice dinner! Check out available styles at Lowes, Home Depot, online, or a local retailer specializing in lighting and such. In a larger home, these changes will be substantially more expensive and will take much more time. So either do it in stages, or pick specific rooms to highlight the upgrade.
If its too expensive to do all at once, or if time is a factor, consider addressing your entry or front door. This point of entry speaks volumes about you and the quality found in the home. If your front door is old, faded, cracking, has a loose or broken door knob/handle, you've just hurt yourself substantially! Buyers will make gut decisions through curb appeal and a front door in just seconds.
Don't forget that home buying is a very emotional experience. If that emotion is skewed negatively in any way as they walk up toward the door, the buyer will begin to register the 'bad' in the home, without giving the 'good' a fighting chance.
A Seller rarely gets a second chance to make a first impression.
Oh, and here's another quickie that might be overlooked if updated, but certainly noticed if not... outlets, switches, and cover plates. If they are old, chipped, painted over, or just plain ugly, replace them! They are a super cheap fix (either use a handyman or be sure to turn the breakers off when changing out!).
So take the time to spruce up the place, because these minor things can make a major difference. If you have any questions, or would like additional tips on buying, selling, or investing, visit Only1Ruben.com, contact Realtor Ruben Vera directly at 757-581-9058 or email to only1ruben@hotmail.com.
