The real estate market is a fickle, fickle beast. There are so many factors that buyers consider before settling on “the one” that it can sometimes be tough for a seller to navigate. If you’re looking to get top dollars from a home that really stands out, it’s all about the finishing touches. At least that’s the lesson we learned from Dave and Kortney Wilson during a recent episode of Masters of Flip. By Amber Dowling
Watch Masters of Flip on Wednesdays at 10pm e/p!
Vaulted Ceilings
People love to feel as though they’re walking into a ton of space when they saunter through those front doors. If you’re able to pull them off, raised or vaulted ceilings certainly give the effect of more space, all while making use of a room’s natural light.
Exposed Brick
We love, love, love the exposed brick wall Kortney left up in this room, since it serves as a divider between the living room and dining room. But exposed brick anywhere is always a selling feature — so long as it’s done tastefully, of course.
Upgraded Windows
It may seem like a small thing, but having newer windows not only spruces the place up, it helps the overall sale price too. Because when you’re talking maintenance costs, new windows are always a bargaining chip.
A Breakfast Bar
People love kitchen with space, and a breakfast bar absolutely gives a kitchen that extra spacious feel. Show it off with small, appropriate chairs to really showcase the room’s potential.
Beautiful Countertops
Marble or granite countertops are always safe bets, since most buyers believe them to be the nicest possible upgrades. If those are a little out of your price range, opt for a really nice-looking material that gives the illusion of marble or granite instead.
A Wet Bar
Whether it’s in the living room, den or yes — even the kitchen, adding a wet bar to a home automatically ups the entertainment potential, and therefore the sale price.
Beautiful Backsplash
It’s crazy how much a pretty and elegant backsplash can modernize a kitchen. There are a variety of options in a wide-ranging price range to choose from, but remember: if it’s top dollars you want you may have to spend a little bit more to get them.
An Updated Range Hood
Another simple kitchen addition to consider, a range hood automatically updates the room while giving it a gleaming finish. Considering most kitchens are a home’s biggest selling point, this is definitely something to consider investing in before selling.
Tidy Trim
Thick baseboards are modern and sleek, and when they’re painted a nice bright white they help any other paint colour really pop.
Pretty Window Coverings
Since most window coverings come with a house, you want to make sure that yours are neutral enough to appeal to a variety of tastes, but that they also add to the overall ambience and flow of the room.
A Gleaming Master Bathroom
Another important aspect for potential buyers: can they relax in their own bathing space? That’s where a master bath comes in handy. And don’t forget the “bath” portion of that where space permits; sure not everyone loves a good soak, but many people do.
Closet Organizers
Buyers don’t want to see your stuff, but they do want to see how easily they can organize theirs. Having a pre-existing and updated closet organizer is a great way to add value to your home when putting it on the market.
Natural Light
Showcase all of the beautiful sun your home gets at every possible chance. If a buyer sees lots of natural light they’re more inclined to return for a second look.
Upgraded Floors
Wherever possible, swap out broadloom for hardwood or upgraded laminate floors. Then decorate the space with throw rugs instead.
Bathroom Tiles
New tiles instantly refresh an old bathroom and brighten up the space. Subway tiles are modern, relatively inexpensive and a great way to go when creating a neutral bathroom for prospective buyers.
All Hands on Deck
Grass is out and decks are in — particularly decks that allow for outdoor living spaces. Spruce yours up with a fresh finish and let the space speak for itself.
Above and Beyond
If you’re able to add an extra wow factor — like this covered entertaining area fashioned from an old barn — your house will absolutely stand out from all others on the street. And when you’re asking for more money than the neighbours, it’s those kinds of details that will have you signing the dotted line on a larger profit in no time.
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