Planning to put your house on the market this year? Realtors agree that a home that is “move in ready” will sell more quickly and for more money than a home with a long list of projects to be done. Here are things a buyer is looking for in a new home:
Fresh Paint
· Neutral Tones: A fresh coat of paint in neutral colors like whites, grays, and beige is a simple update that appeals to buyers.
· Touch-Ups: Even if the walls are a little worn, ensuring there are no scuff marks or chips can make a significant difference.
Updated Flooring
· Fresh Carpeting or Hardwood: Worn-out carpets or outdated vinyl can deter buyers. Buyers may prefer new carpet or updated hardwood or laminate flooring.
· Cleaning/Refinishing: If replacing flooring is out of budget, getting carpets cleaned or refinishing hardwood floors can make a huge difference.
Modernized Kitchen Fixtures
· Updated Cabinet Hardware: Replacing old, dated cabinet knobs and pulls with more modern or sleek options.
· Faucets and Sink: Replacing old, leaky, or outdated faucets with newer, more stylish versions can provide an easy, cost-effective update.
· Appliance Upgrades: Even basic, functional appliances (like a dishwasher or stove) should be in good working condition. Ideally, they should be updated to energy-efficient models, but even just a clean, well-maintained appliance will make a difference.
Updated Bathrooms
· New Fixtures: Like kitchen faucets, replacing bathroom faucets or towel bars with more modern versions can add an updated look without a big investment.
· Caulk: Clean and fresh caulking in the bathtub, shower, and around sinks can make bathrooms look much cleaner and well-maintained.
· Re-grouting Tiles: If the grout is stained or cracked, re-grouting can quickly refresh the space.
Basic Lighting Fixtures
· Modern Light Fixtures: Swapping out old, dated light fixtures with more modern or stylish options can brighten up rooms without major renovation.
· Energy-Efficient Bulbs: Installing LED bulbs can make the home more energy-efficient and lower long-term costs.
Upgraded HVAC and Plumbing
· Ensure Functional HVAC: The heating and cooling system should be in good working condition. Even if it’s not brand new, servicing it, replacing filters, and ensuring the system works properly is essential.
· Check for Leaks: Plumbing systems should be leak-free. A quick inspection and fixing minor plumbing issues, like leaky faucets or running toilets, can go a long way.
· Water Heater: If the water heater is old and inefficient, replacing it with an energy-efficient model may be a must for some buyers.
Curb Appeal
· Lawn and Landscaping: A well-kept lawn with trimmed bushes, fresh mulch, and minimal weeds makes a home more inviting.
· Front Door: A fresh coat of paint on the front door or replacing an old doorknob can add instant curb appeal.
· Lighting: Simple outdoor lighting, like a porch light or path lights, adds a welcoming touch.
Clean and Organized Spaces
· Decluttering: Even if the home isn’t heavily renovated, it’s essential that the home is clean, tidy, and free from clutter.
· Deep Cleaning: Carpets, windows, and appliances should be thoroughly cleaned. A fresh, clean home shows well and gives the impression of good maintenance.
Updated or Functional Windows
· Repair or Replace Old Windows: If windows are cracked, drafty, or hard to open/close, it’s important to address these issues. Even if not fully replaced, ensuring windows are functional can increase appeal.
· Window Treatments: If there are no window coverings, or they are outdated, adding simple blinds or curtains can help improve the home’s look.
Basic Inspections and Maintenance
· Foundation and Structural: Ensure there are no visible cracks or damage to the foundation and structure. A good home inspection can help identify any critical repairs needed.
· Roof Maintenance: The roof should be in decent condition, with no leaks or visible damage. If there’s any damage or wear, it may need repairing.
These updates might seem like a lot, but they can significantly impact how a home shows to prospective buyers. Buyers in 2025 will expect homes to be functional, well-maintained, and relatively up-to-date, even if they’re not fully remodeled. A home that looks cared for and updated, even in small ways, can make a big difference in a buyer’s decision-making process.
Design Tip
If painting is on your “to do” list, these are some neutral paint colors to consider:
~~Soft taupes like Sherwin-Williams "Accessible Beige" or Benjamin Moore "Shaker Beige"
~~Greiges (grey + beige) Benjamin Moore "Edgecomb Gray" or Sherwin-Williams "Agreeable Gray"
~~Soft whites Benjamin Moore "White Dove" or Sherwin-Williams "Alabaster”,
~~Warm beiges Benjamin Moore "Natural Linen" or Sherwin-Williams "Kilim Beige"
These neutral shades work well in various styles, from contemporary and minimalist to traditional and rustic. They're perfect for creating a timeless, balanced backdrop that complements other design elements in a room.
I Was Floored By Enhance
From Monty in Marietta:
“Enhance Floors recently put LVP flooring in my basement and new carpet on my stairs. They did a wonderful job! They patiently walked me through the selection process, were timely in the install, and transparent with the pricing. I compared the pricing of several stores and Enhance Floors was the most competitive! I highly recommend Fran and the team at Enhance Floors!”
Thank you, Monty. Enjoy your new luxury vinyl and all the fun games of pool you and your kids are playing!
How Much Does It Cost?
Monty has a large basement – almost 900 square feet! He selected a Karastan LVP. The total investment was a little over $6000.
