The winter season is notoriously slow for home sales here in Chicagoland, and for good reason. It is difficult to see a home, or show a home, when the weather outside is icy, windy, and freezing. However, if you are waiting until warmer weather to put your home on the market, you don’t have to spend your winter resting on your laurels. Instead, put your energy to good use by taking the time to make upgrades that will increase your house’s value, and maybe even help your property sell more quickly once spring flowers arrive.
Start Staging
It is never too early to begin staging your home to sell, even while you are still living in the house. Use this winter season to begin decluttering counters, cabinets, and closets throughout the home. Begin boxing up items you don’t need, selling items you don’t want, or donating items. It will make your home look better, and will make moving easier when the time comes.
Upgrade Your Kitchen
You don’t have to attempt an entire kitchen renovation to increase seller interest in your home. However, a few small changes can go a long way to modernize your kitchen space. Try painting your cabinets or installing new cabinet hardware like hinges and pulls. You’ll be surprised at what a difference these small weekend projects can make to the overall look of the kitchen.
Install New Faucets
New faucets can also update a room quickly, and you can have it done in less than a few hours. Update the faucets in your kitchen, as well as in each bathroom to have maximum impact.
Paint with Neutrals
Finally, spend your winter painting the interior of your home (or invest in a professional to do the work for you). Don’t miss a spot, and include hallways, baseboards, and ceilings. Focus on painting the home in neutral tones that do not compete with one another. Try white and gray tones throughout the house.
If you are planning on putting your home on the market this spring, don’t wait until March to form a partnership with your real estate attorney. At Bell & Shah, we know homeowners can work ahead with us to make quick closings and sales even easier when the time comes. Give us a call today to set up your initial consultation.
