Updating your home before putting it on the real estate market 
Because I’m getting my first-home, my dream home, my “pre-marriage” starter home ready to put on the market, I’m faced with the same dilemma my Sellers face when updating their home before putting it on the real estate market.
Which paint colors are in style and which will fit the architectural style of my home? Brass is out, so the fixtures I loved twelve years ago will have to go.
Thankfully my kitchen cabinets are a beautiful and natural wood that is still in style, and although my counter-tops are granite squares, they’ll pass. Ceramic tile flooring already in the kitchen – check. Landscaping is budgeted. New stainless steel appliances are selected.
Knowing that I couldn’t be completely objective about needed improvements, I offered myself (the Seller) the same service that I offer my clients – a home-staging consultation.
And, I invited another Realtor over to give me his opinion on needed upgrades. We all had similar ideas, but they each brought some new suggestions to light.
Updating your home before putting it on the real estate market
I will absolutely spend $10,000 to make $30,000 and am thankful that I have that money to invest.
Even when it’s your own home, the tried-and-true home selling formula remains the same, regardless:
- Get your home in top-notch, move-in condition and stage to “WOW” a Buyer
- Price your home competitively
- Choose a Realtor who will market your home aggressively, including extensive internet exposure and marketing to fellow Realtors (yes, that would be ME!)
Lori Cain is a residential Realtor with Chinowth & Cohen Realtors serving the greater Tulsa Oklahoma area, including midtown Tulsa, Owasso, Broken Arrow, Bixby, Sand Springs and Jenks. Please visit Lori’s web site, LoriCain.com or call 918-852-5036.
