Monday, January 9, 2012

HOME IMPROVEMENTS THAT RECOUP THE MOST

Anyone who is thinking about selling their home usually starts thinking about it this time of year.  They are weighing the pros and cons of the cost to “move up” or “downsize”.   Most homeowners think about it at one time or another.


Usually one of the first questions is…what do I need to do to my house to make it more appealing to prospective buyers?


Curb appeal is number one on the list; if a prospective buyer drives by your house and the exterior of the house is not well kept and updated, they will keep driving.


Therefore, the exterior appearance or “curb appeal” needs to be one of the first things to consider.  Fortunately, it is also where you recoup the largest percentage on resale.   Below are three things to do that won’t cost a ton of money, but will definitely give you the biggest bang for your buck.


#1  Install a new Front Door - If you currently have a worn- out front door made of wood that needs to be either painted or re-stained, I would highly recommend you replace it with a steel door.  The new steel doors have been updated to look just like wood but are so much more secure.  The cost will run around $700 including labor.  Reports show that you will recoup this by 102.1%.  Definitely the best investment a seller can make.


#2 Install a new Garage Door -  This is especially true if your garage faces the street.  Cost on average is $1200 including labor.  Recoup value is 83.9%.


#3 Window replacement -  I can’t tell you how many times I have had buyers walk away from a great house just because the windows were either painted shut, had mildew on the frame of the window or had no storm windows with screens.  Windows are not that expensive to replace but not replacing bad windows can make or break a deal.  On average, Low E double hung vinyl windows that tilt out and are capped on the exterior cost $300 installed.  Capping the exterior gives a very clean look which adds to the curb appeal.  Recoup value is 72.6%.


All three of these projects will not only add the curb appeal it takes to sell your house, but they are great selling points for energy efficiency.


For more great tips, check out my website at www.cindybrooksrealtor.com,  or call me at 615-499-9445.  

Cindy Brooks, Realtor
Exit Realty Music City
348 Cool Springs Blvd, Suite 1-A
Franklin, TN 37067
615-499-9445 cell
615-807-1204 office
CindyBrooksRealtor@gmail.com

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