Friday, March 29, 2024

The Real Estate Corner: Selling and wondering if you should update?

Amanda Pruett

by Amanda Pruett

I am asked all the time, “Should I update my home prior to selling?” or “Will I get my money back from updating?” My answer is always the same, “It Depends.”

When you consider updating your home, and want to see at least dollar-for-dollar return, then you need to be careful where you spend your money.

For example, I think money is best spent in the kitchen and master bath. This doesn’t mean that updating other areas won’t help, but kitchen and master bath are the most important.

In the kitchen, replacing the countertops, backsplashes, appliances, removing wallpaper and possibly the flooring will help the most. This assumes that your cabinets are all in good shape. Hopefully, all they need is touch-up, repainting or updated hardware since they are so expensive to replace.

In the master bath, replacing countertops, plumbing fixtures, tiled areas and flooring are in order. The rest of your home needs to be clean, fresh and well maintained. Hardwood floors are always well-received along with new carpet or tile.

Builders in the past used a lot of wallpaper, particularly in the kitchen, breakfast area, dining room and baths. If you have not removed that yet, now is the time. Have it removed and paint it either in the white or grey family.

If you have a pool, updating will include resurfacing, new tile and possibly re-decking. Pools that have been maintained can add value, but a pool that needs work becomes more of a liability than an asset.

I’m not suggesting that any updating be done to your home in order to make it ready for sale. I think in most cases the bigger ticket items should be done at a time when you can enjoy them.

The most important make ready is that it is clean, fresh and in good repair, but I usually recommend updating items which cost the least and bring the greatest return.

 

Amanda Pruett is a Realtor with RE/MAX Cross Country located at 1990 Justin Road in Highland Village.  She can be reached at 469-233-1751 or by email:  [email protected]

CTG Staff
CTG Staff
The Cross Timbers Gazette News Department

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