As I meet with sellers for potential listings, they ask what can they do to attract buyers. Should they wait six months to sell until they can get the kitchen remodeled? How much more can they get with a new kitchen? Will they get their investment back? Will the house sell faster?

A seller only needs ONE strong offer from a qualified buyer. Smart buyers want a good deal, but they also want a home they can settle into and make their own. As a seller you want to make your home different (in a good way), comfortable and enticing, and affordable….for you to sell and the buyer to buy. That new kitchen may cost $50K and generate $100K more in revenue, but timing is key. Interest rates change, values change, and your gamble may not pay off.

Some recommendations I often suggest sellers consider before listing their home are:

1. Staging
2. New or Refurbished Flooring
3. Fixtures
4. Doors
5. Lighting
6. Closet Organizers & Storage
7. Paint
8. Curb Appeal

These are all economical ways to make your home attractive on a small budget, and get a good investment back when you sell. Some sellers aren't in a position to spend time or money to do even minor upgrades. Some homes I sell as "fixers." I thought over the next week or so, Christine and I will share some feedback on these areas and give you some suggestions. Even if you aren't planning to sell your home, but want to upgrade on a budget, maybe you'll find a few of these ideas helpful.