Selling your house can feel tough. You want it to sell quickly and for a good price. It can be stressful. Did you know that nearly 22% of people may work remotely by 2025? This changes what buyers want in a home.
This article will show you 15 upgrades buyers love. These upgrades will help you sell your home faster. Read on to learn more.
Sell Your Home Faster: 15 Features and Upgrades That Buyers Love
Want to sell your house quickly? Smart upgrades can make it happen. Read on to discover 15 home improvements buyers adore, from Zillow Curb Appeal Finder to a new Kohler faucet.
Finish your basement to add functional space
Transform your unused basement into valuable living space. Increase your home’s square footage and appeal to potential buyers. Finishing your basement adds approximately 70% return on investment.
Think extra bedrooms, a home theater, or a playroom. This home improvement project adds value to a home. The average cost ranges from $18,400 to $34,000. This translates to about $20 to $35 per square foot.
Imagine the possibilities! You can create the perfect home office, a game room, or even an in-law suite. This boosts your home’s value and makes it more attractive to buyers in 2024.
A finished basement offers more than just extra living space—it provides flexibility. You can tailor the space to your needs. Maybe you need a dedicated home gym or a larger laundry room.
Perhaps you envision a cozy family room. A finished basement can be anything you want. This feature for your home is attractive to home buyers. This home improvement adds resale value.
It expands the functional space inside your home. Buyers are willing to pay more for homes with finished basements. They see the potential for increased living space and enhanced home value.
A house is made of walls and beams; a home is built with love and dreams.
Convert or build a home office for modern needs
A home office adds value. It’s a must-have feature for many buyers. With more people working remotely, home offices are in high demand. You can convert a spare room. This costs about $2,500 to $4,000.
Think about good lighting and built-in storage. These features appeal to buyers. A dedicated workspace makes your house feel modern. This can make a big difference to prospective buyers.
A home office can boost your asking price. It offers a great return on investment. The ROI ranges from 53% to 75%. You could also build a new home office. This costs around $20,000 on average.
Discuss this with your real estate agent. They can advise you on the best approach for your market. A realtor can help you show buyers the potential of the space. They know what buyers expect in a home office.
A good layout makes the space more appealing. This can help you sell your house fast.
Open up the floor plan for better flow
Knock down those walls. You create a sense of space. Think open concept. It’s a popular home design trend. Buyers love this look. The home feels bigger and brighter. Light flows easily between rooms.
It makes your home feel more inviting. Consider this remodel to make the space more appealing. This home feature improves flow. It also enhances interaction. Movement is easier. Open layouts are modern.
They appeal to many buyers. An open floor plan adds value. It makes a home feel larger. It’s a great way to sell houses faster.
Repaint in neutral colors to appeal to more buyers
Think “greige,” not neon green. Neutral paint colors like beige, gray, or light blue make your home look bigger and brighter. They help buyers imagine their own furniture and style.
Plus, a fresh coat of paint shows you care. This small change can boost your home’s value. You can increase the sale price by 2% to 5% with neutral colors. Painting your house costs around $1,500 to $4,000.
This home renovation adds about 5% to the sale price. So, grab a brush and some agreeable gray. You might just sell your house faster.
Color is a power which directly influences the soul. – Wassily Kandinsky
Consider popular paint colors. Agreeable Gray and Repose Gray are favorites. These colors make rooms feel calm and inviting. This is what buyers want. Neutral colors work with many styles.
They create a blank canvas. This lets buyers see themselves living there. This is key to selling a house within your desired timeframe. Focus on kitchens and bathrooms. These rooms sell houses.
A fresh coat of paint can go a long way.
Upgrades to Improve Curb Appeal
Want a house that screams “buy me”? Boost your curb appeal! Read on to discover how…
Update your mailbox and house numbers
Boost your home’s curb appeal. New house numbers and a mailbox make a big difference. You create a positive first impression for buyers. Think of it as a mini-makeover. This small upgrade costs about $50 to $300.
You get a great return on your investment. Expect almost 96% back. Buyers like to see a well-maintained exterior. This simple change shows you care about your property. It sets the stage for a positive showing.
Consider sleek, modern numbers. A stylish mailbox adds personality. This upgrade enhances the look of your home. It also improves functionality for the new owners. A fresh mailbox signals a fresh start.
This is key for selling a home. You want buyers to feel welcome.
Replace or paint your front door
Your front door is the first impression. Think of it as your home’s handshake. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for curb appeal. It attracts buyers. A steel entry door replacement offers a great return on investment.
You recover a whopping 188.1% of its cost at resale. This upgrade adds value. Consider colors. Neutral colors appeal to more buyers. A bold color can make a statement. Choose wisely.
New hardware, like a stylish door handle and knocker, can further enhance the look. This small fixture upgrade brings big value. These improvements make buyers feel welcome. They boost your home’s value.
Think about security, too. A strong, secure door adds to your home security system. Now, let’s step outside…to your landscaping!
Upgrade your garage door
Think about your garage door. It’s the face of your home. A new garage door adds curb appeal. It boosts your home’s value. Replacing your garage door costs about $1,200. This home remodeling project can add almost $2,800 to your resale value.
That’s a 133% return on investment. Not bad, right? Choose a style that complements your home. Consider materials like steel or wood. A fresh coat of paint can also work wonders. Think about adding outdoor lights for safety and style.
This small change can make a big difference when you sell a house. Buyers will see this upgrade. They’ll appreciate the effort. It shows you care about your property. It makes your home listings stand out.
This is a top home feature buyers love. It’s one of the top 15 upgrades to sell your home faster.
Refresh landscaping for a welcoming exterior
Boost your home’s curb appeal. Landscaping upgrades offer a great return on investment. You can spend $1,000 to $10,000. You can see a return of 200% to 400%. Think of it like this—landscaping is like staging, but for the outside.
A well-maintained lawn and garden can increase your home’s value by 15% to 20%. Consider new shrubs. Plant colorful flowers. Add mulch. These simple changes create a welcoming exterior.
Buyers are looking for outdoor spaces. A beautiful yard grabs their attention. It adds value to your home. Realtors know this. They see how landscaping influences homebuyers.
Spruce up your lawn. Trim overgrown bushes. Edge the sidewalks. These small tasks make a big difference. Buyers notice these details. A tidy yard suggests a well-maintained home. This can ease a buyer’s mind.
They might worry less about hidden problems. You want buyers to feel confident. They should feel excited about buying your home. A fresh, inviting landscape helps achieve this. Consider adding outdoor lighting.
This enhances security. It also adds beauty at night. This is a great selling point. Remember, first impressions matter. Make your home’s exterior shine.
Features That Enhance Outdoor Living
Want a backyard escape? Creating an inviting outdoor space boosts your home’s appeal. Learn how features like pergolas and hammocks can transform your yard into a buyer’s dream.
Add a deck or patio for entertaining
You can boost your home’s appeal with a fantastic outdoor space. Think about adding a deck or patio. It’s a smart upgrade. Buyers love outdoor areas for entertaining. A new deck costs between $4,159 and $11,915.
You’ll likely see a return of about $7,000 when you sell. Patios also add value. They help homes sell faster. Imagine hosting barbecues or relaxing outdoors. This lifestyle sells. These features create a welcoming vibe.
They make buyers say, “This is it!”. These spaces bring value to your home.
Consider the materials. Wood, composite, and stone are popular choices. Think about the size and layout. Match it to your home’s style. You can add features. A pergola offers shade.
Built-in seating adds function. An outdoor kitchen takes it to the next level. This adds luxury. It makes your home even more desirable. These upgrades make a big difference. They can help you sell your home faster and for more money.
A real estate professional can advise you. They know what buyers want. They can help you make the right choices.
Install a fire pit or outdoor fireplace
Imagine cozy evenings. Picture friends and family gathered around a crackling fire. A fire pit extends your home’s living space. It creates an inviting atmosphere. You gain a focal point for outdoor entertaining.
Fire pits offer 360-degree heat distribution. They are perfect for larger gatherings. Consider this upgrade. It adds value to your home. Plus, it offers a great return on investment.
A fire pit installation costs between $300 and $1,400. You can expect a 60% ROI. This makes it a smart investment for home sellers. Think about the features buyers love. A fire pit is definitely one of them.
It adds that “wow” factor. It helps your home stand out in the market. It’s a smart move if you are looking to sell your home.
Build an outdoor kitchen for added luxury
From the warmth of a fire pit, let’s move to another hot spot – the outdoor kitchen. This upgrade boosts your home’s value. It creates a luxurious space. Think built-in grills and stainless steel refrigerators.
You can add ample storage for all your outdoor cooking needs. Construction costs range from $5,976 to $25,098. But the return on investment? A whopping 50% to 300%! Outdoor kitchens are must-have features.
They make your home appealing to buyers. They offer a fantastic space for entertaining. An outdoor kitchen transforms your backyard. It becomes a true extension of your indoor living area.
Consider adding stylish countertops and modern cabinets. These additions elevate the look and functionality. Update appliances like a built-in pizza oven for a gourmet touch. These upgrades make your home stand out.
Interior Upgrades Buyers Appreciate
Want to make your house a buyer magnet? Shiny new floors and updated kitchens and baths work wonders. Curious about more ways to boost your home’s appeal? Keep reading….
Refinish or upgrade flooring with hardwood or luxury vinyl
Flooring is a big deal for home buyers. Think shiny hardwood. Imagine sleek vinyl. These upgrades shout “well-maintained.” The National Association of Realtors reports a 147% return on investment for refinishing hardwood floors.
Refinishing existing floors shows you care. It boosts your home’s appeal. Buyers love that! You can also upgrade. Consider hardwood or luxury vinyl plank. These options add value. They offer durability.
Plus, they look fantastic. This makes your home more attractive to buyers. New floors make a big impact. They can even influence home prices. So, give your floors some love. You’ll see the difference.
It’s a smart move for home sellers and real estate investors.
Swap out fixtures in kitchens and bathrooms
Want an easy upgrade for your home? Consider new fixtures. Think faucets, knobs, and pulls. This small change makes a big difference. It modernizes kitchens and bathrooms. You can spend as little as $100.
Or you can go big for $5,000. The return on investment is great—around 85%. New drawer pulls add a fresh coat. A new faucet shines. These upgrades appeal to buyers. Kitchens sell homes, so make yours sparkle.
Bathrooms are important too. Upgrade them. Buyers love updated bathrooms. Even small changes boost your home’s value. Real estate professionals know this trick. They use it all the time.
So, swap out those old fixtures. You’ll be glad you did.
Do minor kitchen and bathroom remodels
So, you’ve swapped out those tired fixtures. Now, let’s talk bigger upgrades—minor kitchen and bathroom remodels. These home features can seriously boost your home’s value. They are important to make sure your home appeals to buyers.
Think smart updates, not full gut jobs. A minor kitchen remodel (around 200 square feet) costs about $27,492. You get back 96.1% of that when you sell. That’s a great return on investment.
Imagine new countertops, fresh cabinet doors, and maybe a new sink. These updates make your kitchen shine. Buyers love this. A midrange bathroom remodel (a standard 5×7 ft. space) costs around $25,251.
You recoup 73.7% at resale. Consider a new vanity, updated lighting, and a modern showerhead. These changes make a big difference. They also make your bathroom feel luxurious. These upgrades make your home more appealing.
They are important when you buy a home or sell your home.
Energy-Efficient and Low-Maintenance Upgrades
Want lower utility bills? Smart thermostats and solar panels can help. Learn how these upgrades attract buyers and save you money.
Replace old windows with energy-efficient ones
New windows can boost your home’s value. They also save you cash. Think about it—you could save $126 to $465 each year on energy bills. That’s like a small yearly bonus! Upgrading your windows is a smart move for sellers and buyers.
You can get back about 70-80% of what you spend. This makes your home more appealing to buyers. They want lower energy costs. This upgrade makes your home more valuable. It’s a win-win for everyone around your home.
Consider double-paned or triple-paned glass. Look for low-E coatings. These features will keep your home comfortable. They will also reduce your energy bills. New windows add value.
They make your home more attractive to buyers. They offer a good return on investment.
Install energy-efficient appliances
Upgrade your appliances. Think refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines. Energy-efficient models use less electricity and water. This can boost your home value by 60% to 80%. Buyers love saving money.
Lower utility bills are a big selling point. These appliances are a smart investment for sellers. They make your home more attractive to buyers. They also add value. Consider this upgrade when selling your house.
You want to add one. This is a good way to do it. It’s a win-win for buyers and sellers.
Upgrade insulation to reduce energy costs
Boost your home’s value. Improve comfort. Insulation helps with both. You can save 15-25% on heating and cooling bills. The National Association of Home Builders stresses energy efficiency.
Think of it as an investment, not a cost. Good insulation keeps your home cozy in winter, cool in summer. You’ll need to replace less often with quality materials. This is a major selling point for buyers.
In 2023, tax credits for insulation jumped to 30%, up to $1,200. This makes upgrading even more appealing. You’ll save money now and later. Insulation can cut energy use by 50-70%.
This is good for your wallet and the planet. According to home value reports, energy-efficient homes sell faster. Buyers want lower utility bills. Consider spray foam or fiberglass.
Talk to your broker about the best options for your home. They can help you make smart choices.
Conclusion
Smart updates sell houses. You can make your place shine. Think new paint, a nicer yard, and updated kitchens. These changes attract buyers. Get ready to sell fast.
FAQs
1.What small changes help when buying a house?A fresh coat of paint works wonders.Think neutral colors, you know, like grays or beiges.Those appeal to most people.Also, decluttering is key.Less stuff makes rooms feel bigger.It lets buyers imagine their own things in the space.Staging can also help buyers envision living there, like something out of a home magazine.
2.Does a modern kitchen help when buying a house?Absolutely!Updated kitchens are huge selling points.Think stainless steel appliances.Granite countertops are popular too.Even small updates, like new cabinet hardware, can make a big difference.It shows you care about the property.Remember, the kitchen is the heart of the home, like they say on those house-flipping shows.
3.Do bathrooms matter when someone is buying a house?You bet.Sparkling clean bathrooms are a must.A new vanity can give a bathroom a fresh look.Re-caulking the tub is a cheap fix that makes a big impact.No one wants to see mildew, right?A little bathroom TLC goes a long way.It’s all about that spa-like feel, even if it’s not a luxury residence.
4.What about the outside when buying a house?Curb appeal is essential.A well-maintained lawn makes a great first impression.Some colorful flowers add a nice touch.A freshly painted front door can really pop.Think of it like the cover of a book.It draws people in.You want buyers to fall in love before they even step inside.
References
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- https://www.keithsmithconstruction.com/learning-center/15-home-improvements-to-increase-home-value (2024-07-16)
- https://www.instagram.com/soldbyshong/reel/DBFCFTIs4Sx/?locale=pt_PT&hl=en
- https://www.nashvillesmls.com/blog/5-reasons-fresh-interior-paint-can-help-a-home-sell.html (2024-10-16)
- https://realestate.usnews.com/real-estate/articles/secrets-to-selling-your-home-faster
- https://www.homelight.com/blog/what-upgrades-increase-home-value/ (2024-07-29)
- https://www.theinspiredhive.com/2017/06/increase-curb-appeal-to-sell-home.html (2017-06-19)
- https://amerlandscape.com/5-curb-appeal-landscaping-ideas-for-selling-your-home/
- https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/8-backyard-improvements-add-value-your-home-legacydecks-wvfze
- https://pwhomeimprovement.com/outdoor-fireplace-vs-a-fire-pit/
- https://thediyplaybook.com/outdoor-kitchen-add-to-home-value/ (2024-10-21)
- https://footprintsfloors.com/blog?post=impact-of-floor-refinishing-on-home-value
- https://www.gehmanremodeling.com/the-impact-of-a-kitchen-remodel-on-your-homes-value/ (2024-09-17)
- https://www.foxessellfaster.com/blog/the-underrated-factor-that-can-skyrocket-your-homes-resale-price-windows/
- https://homeia.com/home-improvement/why-home-insulation-is-a-smart-investment-for-every-homeowner/ (2023-11-16)