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Remodeling | Barry
Novisel
Barry Novisel is
a Design & Sales Consultant with Action Builders Co. Inc. A
Graduate of the Maryland Design Institute, he began his career
in the Washington D.C. area in Interior Design. Hired by Action
Builders in 2003, he provides Residential Design consultation
and Construction Management services. To reach Barry, call
724-514-7299.
No
Job Too Small
Contracting is an
interesting business. When homeowners consider a large
investment in their home, such as an addition, the first thing
they consider is: should I build or should I move? This is a
very personal decision. Once the decision to move is made, I
assist my clients in selecting the improvements to the existing
home that will have the greatest value. For me, this is the
first step in maintaining a great client relationship.
Generally speaking,
homeowners don’t need to spend a fortune on their home.
Homeowners can make a huge impact on the value of their home
with inexpensive upgrades and touch-ups. Here are five areas of
improvement to get the biggest bang for your buck.
1. Curb Appeal
When I drive up to
a house, I want to be impressed. Paying special attention to the
appearance of the details as well as the overall condition of
the front of your home will make your home a real eye-catcher.
The yard should be well maintained and the main entry should be
as inviting as possible. Add an accent by placing some colorful
plants or flowers near the front door. Spend a few dollars on a
nice doorknocker (whatever you do, make sure the doorbell
works!). The address of the home should also be clearly visible
from the street. Lighting is a great way to jazz up the front of
your house, too. New entry lanterns and sidewalk lighting will
give your home a sense of elegance in the evening.
2. Get Rid of the
Clutter
Cluttered rooms
make a space seem much smaller. This can be a real turn-off to a
potential buyer. Clutter also inhibits the prospect from imaging
their own furnishings and items in the room. Closet organizers,
kitchen, and garage storage systems may not sound like much, but
they can really do wonders.
Another way to make
a space look bigger than it appears, is to extend it into the
outdoors. A deck or patio that’s actually designed for outdoor
activities such as barbequing, dining and entertaining
definitely adds resale value. I suggest that your deck or patio
furnishings be in place so the client can really get a feel for
all its potential. Also, make sure your yard is tidy. Basic
gardening goes a long way. If you have planting beds, new mulch
is a must. Don’t forget the garden shed, it’s the easiest
storage solution.
3. Kitchens and
Baths
Updated kitchens
and bathrooms continue to be a high priority for potential
buyers. Homeowners with time to recoup the cost of gutting a
kitchen or bath are one thing, but for someone selling their
home, this may not be an option. There are other smaller
improvements that don’t have to cost an arm and a leg. New
caulking is a must. Replace or refinish floors, old counter tops
and cabinetry. Even some new lighting, towel bars, or new
faucets can make a big difference.
4. Don’t Forget
the Paint
Painting is the
most cost-effective way to give your home a new look. Interior
and exterior painting will certainly conceal those scuffmarks
and battle scars all homes receive with routine wear and tear.
Your color selection can be creative but remember that neutral
colors will work best for prospective buyers. It’s okay to be
bold, but only in small doses. Consider the overall room size
when making decisions.
Repainting a small
bath is pretty easy versus a large living room. Color choices,
like people, are unique.
5. Call a Pro?
The cosmetic,
inexpensive ideas mentioned will never cover major damage. How
do you keep that buyer from bailing out? Call a professional.
Although some repairs may be expensive, sagging beams, bad
electrical work, and severe water damage need fixing. Some
conditions, such as fire hazards, loose railings, and shaky
stairs, may even be dangerous. Band-aids are not a solution.
Always remember
that a good contractor will work with you and may even have a
few choices on how to rectify severe deficiencies. Always use a
contractor with plenty of references and who is willing to take
you to see their work personally. Peace of mind is priceless.
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