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Small upgrades can make a big difference

By
Real Estate Agent with Results Realty Services

If your home is currently on the market but it is a bit outdated, you may consider a few minor upgrades.  For example, if you have gold door or cabinet hardware, change this to a satin/brushed nickel or pewter pulls and handles.  I recently went to the hardware store and picked up 20 cabinet handles at .50cents per handle.  Ten dollars later and a little bit of time made a world of difference to the kitchen. 

I am now looking to change all of the door locks and hinges around the house.  If you are on a tight budget, like most of us are, it's best to shop around before making the purchase.  I have had good luck on ebay and I do buy quite a bit through the site.  Craigslist is a good source too.  The key is to identify exactly what you are looking for, and compare apples to apples.  For example, go to ebay, find a Kwikset locking door knob in satin nickel, then compare that price to Home Depot's price for the same item. Don't forget about shipping and taxes!  On ebay, unless it's local, shipping charges are likely to be incurred, and there's a good chance that taxes are not incurred.  At Home Depot, shipping is adjusted into the price, and taxes are a factor too.  Peace of mind is a factor too.  Many Ebay stores do not offer a return policy, and if they do, you'll be paying for shipping again.  And also depending on where the item is being shipped, it may take you a while to get it.  So there are a few downsides.  Therefore, if you go thru ebay, make it worth your time and effort.  Otherwise, drive to Home Depot.

The upgraded appearance may help buyers get past the outdated feel.  A house built in the 90s can be very competitive with a newer home if it has the right improvements and upgrades.  Will the seller make back his/her investment in upgrades?  Maybe, Maybe not.  But in this competitive environment, it may help bring more buyer's to the table.