Like most Santa Cruz homeowners, you want to get the most out of your property investment. While there are many things you can do to increase the value of your home, we've put together a list of our top seven tips. Whether you're preparing to sell in the near future or simply want to make your home more comfortable and appealing, these tips will help!
Home inspection and repairs
One of the best ways you can prepare Santa Cruz homes for sale while improving their value is to have them inspected and make any repairs the inspector suggests. This will give you a better chance of getting top dollar when you sell.
Santa Cruz is known for its tight housing market, and potential buyers are willing to pay more for a home that doesn't need immediate work. By having your home inspected before you sell your home in Santa Cruz, you can identify any necessary repairs and make them beforehand.
Typical repairs include adding additional spindles to stair banisters or other fire alarms to meet updated building codes. These may seem like small items, but they can make a big difference in the minds of potential buyers. If you need help finding a reputable home inspector, contact a local listing agent in Santa Cruz for a recommendation.
Handle basic maintenance needs
In addition to any necessary repairs, it's also essential to take care of basic maintenance needs and update any appliances that may be outdated. Santa Cruz homes for sale are known for their well-maintained properties, and potential buyers will look for signs that the house has been cared for over the years.
One of the best ways to show that your home has been well-maintained is to keep up with essential maintenance, which means having your furnace, air conditioner, water heater, dryer vents, and chimneys inspected at least annually. You should also keep up to date on other significant appliances, such as your washer, dryer, and fridge. Buyers will be willing to pay more for a home with new appliances, so it may be worthwhile to replace your main appliances before you sell your home in Santa Cruz.
By taking care of basic maintenance needs and updating outdated appliances, you'll be able to show potential buyers that your home has been well-cared-for over the years. For advice on the appliances buyers are currently interested in, reach out to a local listing agent in Santa Cruz for information on comparable sales and their features.
One of the best ways to show that your home has been well-maintained is to keep up with essential maintenance, which means having your furnace, air conditioner, water heater, dryer vents, and chimneys inspected at least annually. You should also keep up to date on other significant appliances, such as your washer, dryer, and fridge. Buyers will be willing to pay more for a home with new appliances, so it may be worthwhile to replace your main appliances before you sell your home in Santa Cruz.
By taking care of basic maintenance needs and updating outdated appliances, you'll be able to show potential buyers that your home has been well-cared-for over the years. For advice on the appliances buyers are currently interested in, reach out to a local listing agent in Santa Cruz for information on comparable sales and their features.
Add convenience upgrades
In addition to ensuring your home is well-maintained, you can add convenience upgrades to make it more appealing to potential buyers. Santa Cruz homeowners are always looking for ways to make their lives easier, and adding smart home features can be a major selling point. Consider upgrades like automated window coverings or voice- and app-controlled features like lighting, music, and security systems. You can even invest in a vacuum laundry chute or custom built-ins, like hidden baby or pet gates that slide back into the wall when not in use. Be sure to think about how upgrades can improve your life while you retain ownership of your home, but also consider what upgrades are likely to appeal to buyers of Santa Cruz homes for sale. To learn about the most popular convenience upgrades in your area, reach out to a local listing agent in Santa Cruz to discuss what features buyers are most likely to be interested in seeing when you sell your home in Santa Cruz.
Add a fresh coat of paint
A fresh coat of paint is always a good idea when preparing to sell your home in Santa Cruz. It's one of the quickest and most cost-effective ways to make your home look its best, and it can even help buyers of Santa Cruz homes for sale see past any cosmetic imperfections that may be present. When choosing paint colors, stick with neutrals or light colors that will help make your home feel bright and welcoming. You can add an accent wall or two to add a pop of color without going overboard. For advice on choosing the perfect paint colors for your home, reach out to a local listing agent in Santa Cruz for a consultation and recommendations for painting services in Santa Cruz.
Consider major interior upgrades
Another way to show that your home has been well-maintained is to update any interior rooms that may be outdated. Santa Cruz buyers of Santa Cruz homes for sale are often looking for homes with updated kitchens and bathrooms, so if yours are in need of a refresh, these areas are a great place to start. You can also update light fixtures, door hardware, and cabinet pulls to give your home a more modern look. Before making any significant home improvements, consult a listing agent in Santa Cruz to learn which upgrades will likely have the highest return on investment when you sell your home in Santa Cruz.
Don't forget about curb appeal!
Once you've taken care of the interior of your Santa Cruz home, it's time to turn your attention to the exterior. Any listing agent in Santa Cruz will remind you that curb appeal is important for all Santa Cruz homes for sale, so it is especially important to have impressive curb appeal when you sell your home in Santa Cruz. A little landscaping can go a long way, so consider adding some potted plants, installing new mulch, and trimming overgrown bushes. You can add a fresh coat of paint to your front door or update your address numbers for a more polished look. Be sure to evaluate your home's façade, roof, and garage doors to determine if they would benefit from a power washing or full replacement.
Hire a professional staging service
If you really want your Santa Cruz home to stand out from the competition, consider hiring a professional staging service. A professional stager can help you achieve a picture-perfect look in each room of your house, which can help you sell your home in Santa Cruz quickly and for more money. Be sure to consult a listing agent in Santa Cruz for staging company recommendations.
Ready to work with a Santa Cruz real estate agent?
If you're looking to sell your home in Santa Cruz, there are several things you can do to improve its value. From painting the interior to adding new landscaping, there are many projects you can undertake yourself or with the help of a professional. No matter what route you choose, consult with a local listing agent in Santa Cruz like Daniel Oster for help with the entire sale process from beginning to end.
