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Simple improvements pay high dividends.

By
Real Estate Agent with Florida's Realty LLC

When purchasing investment properties we look at the homes that require minimal cash outlay to update and make move in ready for renters. 

Some of the same practices can apply to sellers getting their homes tip top shape for the market. 

1.  Curb appeal:  It takes little or no cost to ensure that hedges are trimmed, and the property is weeded.  Make sure your renter/buyer's first impression is a positive one.  A simple addition of inexpensive flowers in the flower bed or in pots (you can take those with you), will add to the initial warmth and appeal.  Try flowers that need little care, like begonias, succulents needing little water.

2.  Clean and welcoming:   Maybe you have a power washer, or a friend who has one.  Cleaning up the exterior of the home can include a good washing.  Rather than painting the whole house, if you can avoid it, try refreshing the trim, and giving the door a new coat of paint...I like a cheery and welcoming red!

3.  De-clutter!  Most rental homes are not furnished, so this may not apply, but I had to throw it in for you sellers.  We really do like your stuff..you have terrific stuff...but the more stuff you stuff into your stuff...the harder it is for us to see how large/lovely/amazing your home is.

4.  Update the kitchen:  If your kitchen is dated, and a total upgrade is not in the picture or the budget, little things can make the world of difference provided it is not a total disaster.  Cabinet paint and new hardware can take your kitchen look from blah to aaah!  New hardware and matching appliances are a plus as would be the removal of that sunflower, cow, pig, daisy wallpaper border.  If you want to go that extra step..on a budget and if you are handy...think about tiling the surface of your counter top.  We built a wet bar recently and used travertine tile for the counter and edge...total cost less than $200.

wetbar

5.  A clean Loo:  Bathroom updates need not be expensive.  The goal is to make the space look inviting and CLEAN!.  For outdated bathrooms, inexpensive floor fixes can make a huge difference...self stick linoleum tiles for example can do the job provided they are in a natural stone look or color!  No need to replace ick with ick.  Painting and outdated cabinet, and replacing the hardware can go a long way.  Painting the walls in a neutral, modern and warm color can make the space more inviting.  We recommend making sure all outlets are GFCI, and we also like to replace any obviously dated vanity lights and faucets, including those in the tub/shower.  Lastly a must do is to regrout the tiles and re-seal the tub/wall join.

If you do decide to go an extra step, keep in mind that a simple bathroom rehaul need not be expensive provided you are able to do much of the labor yourself.  Case in point is our 1970's bathroom that had a magical transformation for $700.00.

Before and after (you guess which is which)

bathroom

 

6. Clean Freak:  Fresh paint and clean floors/carpet are little things that make a big positive impression.  I love paint for one of the easiest, cost effective ways to make a big change.  If Fido has marked his territory on your cream color carpeting once too often, time to give it the heave-ho or at the very least a good scrub.

7.  Fix it:  Remember all those little things you wanted to fix, but never got around to doing...do it.  If you've purchased an investment property...and have followed my advice, you had an inspection and you know what needs doing.  Rank things by gotta do and nice to do, keeping in mind your budget and target ROI.  If you are selling your home and don't know what the issues are...maybe it would be a good idea to spring for a inspection, at least you will eliminate any suprise later.

Posted by

Sandi Davidson, Realtor®

Florida's Realty LLC

(239) 674-7307

www.sandisellsflorida.com

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Comments (2)

Toni Weidman
Sailwinds Realty - Trinity, FL
20+ Years Selling Homes in New Port Richey, FL

Nice post, Sandi, with lots of good information. The before & after pictures of the bathroom are great and really make the point.

Jul 23, 2011 07:45 AM
Sandi Davidson
Florida's Realty LLC - Lehigh Acres, FL

Thank you Toni!

Jul 23, 2011 08:16 AM