Experts Rate Curb Appeal and Staging as Best Home Improvement Projects for Sellers
April 28, 2014New Zillow Digs Survey of Real Estate Agents and Interior Designers Finds Homeowners Should Avoid Costly Renovations Prior To Listing Their Home For Sale
SEATTLE, April 10, 2014 /PRNewswire/ –Today’s home sellers should focus on curb appeal and home staging above larger-scale home renovations, according to a new survey[i] from Zillow Digs(R). Zillow asked real estate agents and interior designers nationwide to identify the most valuable home improvements for sellers, and the experts agree that minor improvements like landscaping and painting walls in neutral colors save money and attract buyers faster.
Agents agree that sellers should avoid costly projects prior to listing their home, as the increased sale price may not outweigh the time and money spent on the remodel. Instead, agents and designers recommend spending money on minor renovations that will bring the home up to current market standards while also appealing to the broadest number of potential buyers.
Curb Appeal: Creating a strong first impression is imperative as buyers begin making assumptions about a home well before they step inside. “A clean entrance can go a long way toward establishing a positive first impression,” said Zillow Agent Advisory Board member, Cyndi Lesinski of Valencia, Calif. Lesinski recommends adding “fresh potted flowers to increase the life and energy of the entrance.” Another tip is to simply add a fresh coat of paint to the front door. Black, dark charcoal and tasteful reds such as burgundy or cranberry are currently the most popular front door colors on Zillow Digs. These colors bring tasteful exuberance to the home without being too overbearing for potential buyers.
Staging: A home stager can skillfully identify ways to highlight your home’s best features and compensate for its shortcomings. The goal is to make “your home appeal to the broadest audience and number of buyers possible,” says Zillow Digs Board of Designers member Mara Miller of Carrier and Company in New York City. When staging, remove all personal belongings and avoid colors or furniture that are too style-specific – neutral colors and minimal furniture are best. “Attempting to decorate may not be the best use of your time and dollars,” says Miller.
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