Today with the First Time Home Buyer tax credit and the high housing inventory in Upstate SC, it could be easy to say we are experiencing a buyers’ market. If you’re a seller, don’t despair. There are things you can do to help make your home stand out. Buyers look at many homes when shopping for a house; so preparing your home to make it more memorable is vital and increases the chances of a successful sale.

Cleaning out clutter, taking down your personal photos, applying a fresh coat of paint in a neutral color, making minor repairs, and keeping a pleasant aroma are all basic techniques to make your home more appealing. But there are a few other creative enhancements that you can do to wow buyers without emptying your wallet. The results not only attract more attention, but also paint a picture of a well-cared-for home.

While not every buyer is looking for the same thing, most buyers are attracted to larger kitchens, extra storage space, light and bright rooms, and open floor plans. Special finishing touches on a home can be the needed incentive to generate an offer.

Here are five areas where you can spend some of your remodeling money to add the “wow” factor to your home.

1. Go green. Energy efficient products and household goods are very attractive to home buyers. Renovations or replacements that help make the house more energy efficient are popular. Things such as better insulation and replacing old windows can increase value.

2. Crown molding and Wider baseboards. Some homeowners are shy to experiment with this but it can be very attractive and give your home more character & style. The baseboards that builders often use in spec homes don’t draw attention. Adding a wider baseboard and a fresh coat of paint makes the room come to life. Also, framing windows and doors helps complete the look of a room. Home Depot and Lowes often have classes to teach you the ins & outs about this do it yourself project.

3. Textured paint. Faux finishes, accented walls, or even just a little fresh paint on them makes a lasting impression. Choose colors and textures wisely. Don’t get carried away with a color you love (Clemson Orange walls—I’ve seen it in a home for sale). Remember, that you want your home to appeal to everyone not just Clemson fans. You can always paint your new home orange—and then change it when it comes time to sell it!

4. Flooring. Wood, tile, and new carpet can really make a difference. But if the flooring is chipped, torn, or dirty, buyers may think your home hasn’t been cared for properly which could result in a lower offer -- or no sale at all.

5. Add a deck. Adding a deck can add value to your home. It’s a nice feature in a yard and many buyers are happy to purchase a home that already has a deck so that they don’t have to take on that home improvement project.

Mark Brian  REALTOR  Silver Star Real Estate  864-353-1253  Email