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Updating vs Renovating your home. Staging in Burlington

By
Home Stager

You're thinking of putting your home on the market in the Spring. 

Your home is getting older. Some of the features look dated now. 

The truth is that the more 'move-in' ready your home is the more Buyers it will attract.

 Just how much do you need to do to get it ready for the market?

You have to decide if you are going to 'update' or 'renovate'. 

Updating can be as simple as painting with a more current color scheme. It also can include new lighting. 

Renovating is far more extensive. It can mean taking the space back to the studs and starting over or removing a wall to open up a space. 

Kitchens are a key area in a home. A kitchen renovation will probably cost more than the resale value it adds to your home. That is why you should expect to get part of the return on your investment in enjoying the results of the renovation. Updating the kitchen can include new counter, taps, sink, appliances or back splash. Painting the cabinets and/or changing the doors and hardware can make a big difference. It is important that it look ready for many years of trouble free use.  

Bathrooms are also key. They are similar to a kitchen in that a renovation is costly especially if you try to enlarge it by moving a wall. Updating can include paint, lighting, taps, sinks, counter, tile and maybe resurfacing the tub. Like kitchens, buyers want a bathroom ready for them to use not renovate. 

Fireplaces can be updated by refacing them. 

Installing a new front door or garage doors can make a big difference to the curb appeal of a home. However a fresh coat of paint and new hardware and lighting can up your curb appeal as well. 

Set a budget you can live with. Contact a Professional to help you create a 'to do' list that will give you the best return on your efforts. A Realtor/Stager Team can give you an objective look at your home. 

 

 

 

Posted by

Retired Home Stager

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comments(2)

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Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Real Estate Svcs.
KD Realty - 408.972.1822 - San Jose, CA
Probate Real Estate Services

Janice,  I've learned that staging a home that is a little dated takes the focus off the areas that are not updated ... staging provides an energizing updated look and feel.  I am truly amazed at what staging professionals do and how they transform a home.

Feb 04, 2016 01:08 AM
Janice Ankrett

Kathleen Daniels Staging can help buyers see past the tired areas of the home to what it could become. 

Feb 04, 2016 04:42 AM
Kathy Streib
Cypress, TX
Retired Home Stager/Redesign

Janice- there's a big difference between renovating and updating.  But doing one or the other is better than doing nothing at all!  

Feb 04, 2016 10:59 AM
Janice Ankrett

I agree Kathy Streib ! Updating is often affordable for sellers and creates that 'move-in' home that buyers want. Sellers should consult a professional so that their funds are spent wisely. Realtors can tell them what price range their area draws so they don't over improve the home for the area.

Feb 05, 2016 12:00 AM