Moving or not, regular maintenance and minor improvements from time to time is the key to keeping your home’s value intact – especially in a down market. Here are a few simple tips to battle declining home values and save some money:
- Get green – spend a little and save a lot! Upgrading your old, energy-sucking appliances may seem like it could be an expensive project, but it pays back dividends. Not only are you doing something positive for your world, you will immediately see some pocketbook relief in your monthly bills. And new appliances will definitely boost your home’s appeal to potential buyers.
- Spice up your kitchen – do you need a culinary facelift? Your kitchen is one of the few spots in your home that will return almost every penny spent when you decide to sell. Re-face dingy cabinets, re-finish aged floors and consider a new sink or countertop. Even a perky paint color will brighten and open up your chef’s space.
- Freshen up your bathroom! Consider a new hue with all the matching accessories – rugs, shower curtain, towels. No need to go the designer route – even bright, solid colors can create cleaner lines and a more inviting atmosphere. Do some bargain-hunting to find mirrors – they can make a room seem bigger than it really is.
- What is your home’s first impression? If the exterior of your home needs some help, consider a coat of paint or getting the exterior power washed. Years of protecting you from the elements can create some wear and tear. In most cases, you can power-wash the grime away to leave a cleaner exterior.
- Get your hands dirty! You’ve been cooped up all winter – spend some time outside in your yard. Tend to broken sidewalks, plant some perennials and pull those nagging weeds. Even a new stain on your deck can make a huge difference.
If you need to tackle the bigger projects (additions or major overhauls), consider tapping into your home’s equity. A cash-out refinance will allow you to invest in increasing your home’s value with the improvements your home needs. Making your home stand out among the crowd will benefit you when it comes time to sell.
Related Info
- Up to 95% cash-out refinance with FHA Express.
- Get current mortgage rates.
- Use our Home Value Calculator.
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