Budget-Friendly Home Improvements Before Moving to a New House

Are you preparing to move home? Before doing so, it’s wise to enhance your property’s appeal to significantly boost both its marketability and sale price. While you may feel these enhancements need to be major, that’s not the case. In fact, there are various home improvements you can complete that don’t break the bank.  

This guide provides you with some of the best tips to improve your current abode’s value and desirability.

Essential Budget-Friendly Improvements 

Some budget-friendly improvements are recommended. Others are imperative. The latter category includes the following enhancements: 

• Painting: A new coat of paint is one of the most tried-and-tested, cost-effective ways to transform the interior of your home. Select neutral colors like beige, gray, or soft blues as these tend to appeal to the widest range of buyers. One of the best aspects of this project type is that it can usually be completed over a weekend, and a few tins of paint won’t make too much of a dent in your bank balance. 
• Fixtures and hardware: Never underestimate the small details. These can significantly affect a buyer’s first impression. Cabinet handles, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures – replacing outdated fixtures like these can give your home a modern touch, all without requiring a substantial investment. Choose sleek, contemporary designs in finishes like brushed nickel or stainless steel to appeal to current tastes. 
• Curb appeal: First impressions matter – and the exterior of your home is the first thing potential buyers will see. Simple landscaping enhancements, from planting seasonal flowers to keeping the lawn trimmed, can make a major difference. Additionally, painting your front door in a welcoming color – think red or deep green – can create an eye-catching focal point. These improvements increase curb appeal, yes, but they also suggest a well-maintained property to prospective buyers.

Deep Clean and Declutter

Another way to positively impact a potential buyers’ first impression is with a thorough clean of your property. Focus on areas that showcase your home’s health and hygiene. Think about your kitchen and bathroom. You should clean windows, polish floors, and keep grout lines spotless. Have carpets? Steam cleaning can assist in removing persistent stains and odors. 

As for clutter, this often makes spaces appear smaller and distracts from your home’s features. Start by removing personal items such as photos, keepsakes, and excessive decorations. If you have excessive belongings, you may want to consider renting a storage unit to maintain a minimalist, tidy environment within your home. The added bonus is that it helps simplify your upcoming move. 

Minor Repairs and Upgrades 

Resolving minor issues before listing your home can prevent buyers from being deterred by these problems. Small DIY repairs include leaky faucets, squeaky doors, and loose tiles. You also want to patch up and repaint any wall damage. 

As for upgrades, place a focus on enhancing your property’s efficiency. With more and more people valuing sustainability, a more energy-efficient home is going to appeal. These upgrades also don’t have to be expensive. You could replace old light bulbs with LED models, for example or install low-flow shower heads to reduce water usage. Inexpensive upgrades, yes, but they can be attractive to buyers seeking a ready to move in home that also saves them money on utilities. 

Should You Sell Before Buying? 

When moving, there’s one crucial decision you must make: whether to sell your current home before purchasing a new one. 

When deciding on whether to sell your house before you buy your new home or not, there are pros and cons for both routes. When selling first, you can avoid the financial strain of holding two mortgages simultaneously. Additionally, the proceeds from the sale can supply you with substantial funds to invest in your next home, which may allow for a better down payment and more favorable mortgage terms.

On the other hand, there are risks that can crop up. Selling your home before buying another might mean needing temporary housing if there’s a gap between transitions. The result: you have to deal with additional logistical challenges and extra costs. 

Ultimately, the choice depends on your financial stability, the local housing market, and your tolerance for potential disruptions. However if you make strategic home improvements as listed above, this can help secure a quick sale. It can also make the process of purchasing your new home all that more seamless. 

Conclusion

Implementing these budget-friendly improvements can significantly enhance your home’s appeal and value. This is ideal for selling your home swiftly, which ensures a smoother transition to your new abode.

Featured Photo by Jarek Ceborski on Unsplash