3 Easy Improvements that Help Sell Homes

As the real estate market changes, home sellers may need to take some extra steps to get their homes sold quickly and for top dollar. The right improvement projects may be one of the steps you'll need to consider. Most of these upgrades are DIY jobs. The savings offered by doing it yourself helps increase your return on investment when the home sells.

1. You Had Me at the Curb

That first impression is critical when it comes to getting people through the front door of your home. So, let's get the curb appeal taken care of first.

• Rake the beds, pull the weeds, remove debris, and anything not part of the landscaping.
• Get the lawn in shape, prune trees and shrubs, and spread mulch.
• Clean the gutters, paint the trim, railings, and door.

2. Paint is the Wonder Drug

New paint on the home's interior walls can transform the appeal and make the home feel clean. To be safe, you want to choose neutral colors, such as white, off-white, or gray. Neutral colors are more appealing to potential buyers because many want the creative freedom of a blank canvas to add their own personal touches to.  In addition, light neutral colors tend to make rooms look larger.

3. Focus on the Kitchen and Bathrooms When Upgrading

Paint is the first step. Then, consider a few other little jobs that can update the look of the kitchen and bathroom: replace the faucets, refinish the cabinets, add new knobs and pulls on the cabinets and drawer, re-caulk the tub and toilet, and ensure that the lighting isn't outdated.