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Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Remodeling before a resale

Quick rules of thumb when you remodel for resale
By Jay MacDonald · Bankrate.com

When planning a home improvement project you may have favorite ‘must do’ projects, but it pays to design with resale in mind.

·  Select neutral colors: It creates a blank canvas effect for potential buyers

·  Upgrade your kitchen first:  It’s the one room buyers use consistently to determine how well a house has been maintained.

·  Paint, paint, paint:  It’s the quickest and most inexpensive makeover technique.  If the exterior paint is faded or weather-beaten, a fresh coat of paint is a cost-effective sales tool.

·  Hide those flaws:  Textured wallpapers and faux wall finishes hide a multitude of surface flaws.

·  Focus on the floors:  Whether wood, tile, laminate or vinyl, make sure they’re inviting, not cracked or discolored.  Again, neutrals sell best, natural wood best of all.

·  Cost-cutting:  Use wood or tile to dress up laminate countertops; stencil that backsplash instead of installing tile; consider marble sheets instead of ceramic tile for that tub surround.

·  Keep all options open:  One man’s workshop is another man’s wine cellar.  Don’t eliminate options when you remodel rooms.

Jay MacDonald is a freelance writer based in Florida
— Posted: April 25, 2000


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