Easy Ways to Increase Home Value

Courtesy of our hero, Dave Ramsey:

Set yourself up to reap the most value when you sell

When it comes time to sell your house, one of the worst mistakes you can make is to think your home’s appearance won’t affect its value. Take some time to spruce it up so you can sell it for the best possible price. Think about the following projects:

Landscape it
First impressions are everything, and your yard is no exception. Your curb appeal could be the difference between a drive-by and a stop and stare! Most people make a decision whether or not they want to go inside the house during the moment in which they first glance at the home. Trim back hedges so windows are visible, weed and mulch flower beds to increase contrast, and edge and trim your lawn to add a clean look to the front of your house.

Coat it
Give your house a facelift with a new coat of paint. A gallon of paint goes a long way and only costs you around $15 per can. If you want to save even more money, paint the house yourself. You will be amazed by the difference a new coat of paint will make for your home’s appearance and value.

Repair it
Squeaky hinges, rusty door knobs, leaky faucets, and wobbly banisters—just a few of the things a screwdriver and a little grease can fix. You can fix these small problems without having to pay big bucks for an inspector. Do little things around the house to get big results.

Clean it
Cleaning your house may seem like common sense, but you may be surprised how uncommon it is for homeowners to declutter the home before it goes on the market! A messy home is one quick way to scare people off and kick dirt on the price. Host a garage sale for unused furniture and other items you don’t need that are taking up space. Dust off the mantle, and store books and CDs that aren’t being used. Create a clean feel in your home, and you’ll enhance its value.

These types of do-it-yourself projects are inexpensive and can produce quick results. If you do these things, you will set yourself up to reap the most value when it comes time to sell your home.

from daveramsey.com on 29 Jun 2010

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