First impressions are everything.

Most potential buyers begin their searches online, using visual references like photos and virtual tours, to imagine themselves calling a place home. Here are some easy ways to showcase your property at its best:

 

INDOORS

 

• Declutter. Cluttered homes appear smaller and can turn a potential sale into a disappointment. The goal with decluttering is to create as much visual space as possible.
  
  

• Repaint. A fresh coat of paint can go a long way. Choose a neutral palette that allows potential buyers to see a blank canvas for their dream home.
  
  
• Decorate. Decorate and arrange rooms with a purpose. Extra rooms should be designated as offices, libraries, guest rooms, and so on, and the living room should not be multipurpose. Don't keep buyers guessing.
  
  
• Brighten. Lighting can often make or break a sale. Open curtains to showcase natural light and desired views. And ensure that light bulbs cast rooms in the most favourable light.
  
  

OUTDOORS

• Exterior. Your home's view from the curb is the first impression, so make it a great one! Ensure that windows and walkways are clean and take special note of the condition of house numbers or other exposed hardware.
  
  
• Landscaping. Keep your lawn green and gardens in bloom! A patchy or overgrown lawn takes away from your home's overall appearance, so re-seed and weed, prune shrubs, bushes and trees. During winter months, remove snow frequently.
  
  
• Garage. Ensure that the garage is clean and tidy. Designate the garage as the place to park, not as a storage unit.
  
  
• Patios and Decks. Declutter, re-stain and pressure wash if necessary. Decorate these areas for eating or relaxing, so buyers can visualize the intended purposes.

 

Speak candidly with your Trilogy Team agent for additional tips and strategies on how to create the best first impression.

The balance between cost effectiveness and enhanced visual appeal.

Investing in your home for resale only makes sense if your return exceeds your financial outlay. If you are planning to sell your property in the near future, consider the relative merits of different renovations.

 

You must determine how much of your renovation cost will add to the value of your home. Here are some ideas for determining the value of a house renovation:

 

• Age of Renovation. A brand new renovation should increase the value of your home by the cost. The buyer should be willing to pay for the full price of the renovation if it is something they would have done anyway.
  
  

• Remove and Replace. Removing something that has value and replacing it with something new may not provide the financial return that you had hoped.
  
  
• Buyers Appreciation. Will buyers appreciate your cost and the hassle of renovations? Not necessarily. A buyer might appreciate a new kitchen but may only be willing to pay a portion of the cost if they think it is worth less than the cost.
  
  
• Importance of Usage. Outside renovations are more variable. Fences and decks are more standard, so most buyers will pay for that; however, some buyers may or may not love a brand new in-ground pool.

 

When renovating and remodeling, be sure to consider: the value of what you are removing; whether buyers will value the same amount that you did; and whether the renovation has broad market appeal.