If you have a small budget to spend on home improvement projects this year, you'll want to make sure that you use it wisely, especially if you plan to put your home on the market soon. I always recommend that you stay on top of basic home maintainence, but beyond that, it can be difficult to determine which features to add or update in your home.You dont want to spend money on something that's going to go out of style anytime soon. So, where do you start?
One thing you can do is watch the key words real estate agents are using in their remarks about their active listings. We have a limited number of words we can use to describe a home for sale on the multiple listing, so every word counts. Looking at what we choose to include can give you an idea of what we see as a selling feature of a home. So, let's see what we are seeing in the homes we are listing.
1. Quartz Countertops:
For years, granite countertops were a must-have feature in the kitchen. But lately, we see quartz popping up all over the place. So the new standard is quartz or other unique materials like sandstone.
2. Smart Home:
Smart home features are systems that control security alarms, heating and cooling, lighting and more are starting to become more popular in homes
3. Stainless Steel Appliances: A Safe Bet
The data shows that mentions of stainless steel appliances have increased every year since 2011. While new appliance finishes like slate are starting to gain traction, stainless steel is still the gold.
4. Fire Pits:
Fire pits soared in popularity since 2012. Home owners love having the fire pit just steps from the pool for a quick warm up.
5. Tasting Rooms: A Smart Addition to a Wine Cellar
In luxury homes, it used to be that a wine cellar was a must. Now, more is wanted. Now, they want a tasting room that has a dining table and chairs. I have seen the word 'tasting' appear more often in listings every year since 2011. So wine cellars are no longer viewed as a cold dark room but a comfortable living area.
6. Outdoor Kitchens: Elevating the Backyard Cookout
Outdoor kitchens have gained popularity since 2011. Backyards are becoming places to lounge during the summmer, with full kitchens, fireplaces and even televisons. Having an outdoor place to host friends has become important for many high-end buyers.
7. Freestanding Tubs: A Luxury Bathroom Must-Have
Having a combination shower tub is an excellent space saver. But, if you have the space, if your bathroom is large enough, you might consider adding a freestanding tub. This is actually becoming the norm in newly constructed high-end homes.
So there you have it. I hope this helps you. Like I said, just watch the listings and see whats popular in our area.
My name is Lisa Longest and I work for Exit Gold Realty. I specialize in Stevensville Md and surrounding cities here on Kent Island. My goal is to work with people to help them build the lifestyle they want. I help them make decisions that will change their lives for the better. So feel free to contact me to get more information on homes for sale in the Stevensville or surrounding cities, or help you sell your existing home, at 443-786-4200
Comments(0)