Have you seen the television shows about home “Flippers”, people who make a business out of buying “undervalued” homes and reselling them? These Flippers are typically looking to make a speedy return on their investment with quick fixes and seemingly sub-par cosmetic updates.
Any Flippers we might have in Lafayette are likely frustrated right now. Our current home inventory is low and competition is high from all kinds of buyers, including many families who want to move here.
Our local developers have better success here because they tend to buy property with plans to build or substantially remodel homes designed for the high-end buyer. They typically use high quality materials, beautiful design elements and thoughtful floor plans -– a much bigger commitment in expertise, time, money and reputation.
Lafayette Home Seller Tip: Spend Where It Makes an Impact for Lafayette Buyers
Sometimes local homeowners planning to sell the family home take their to-do list cues from HGTV real estate home shows that aren’t necessarily the reality of our Lafayette real estate marketplace. It’s better to look closer to home for advice!
One thing to keep in mind before tackling large pre-listing projects like kitchen and bathroom makeovers: Some Lafayette homebuyers will pay a premium for high quality turnkey condition, particularly if the house is in a sought after neighborhood. Many buyers, though, are also willing to consider a home that falls short of their dream just to secure the location, lot and access to their preferred schools, knowing they can make their own changes – now or later.
The Home Seller To-Do List: What Always Matters?
• Staging: I am a big believer in taking time and investing money to prepare a Lafayette home for sale in order to attract as many buyers as possible and the top-dollar offers the home likely deserves. That’s why I invest my own money in the homes I represent by providing complimentary staging, including access to my large collection of beautiful furniture and accessories.
• Condition of Home: Proof of property condition is also critical, and that begins with sellers investing in pre-listing inspections and must-do fixes.
• Updates & Upgrades: Cosmetic updates can make a difference, too.
If you’re doing these upgrades solely in anticipation of selling your home, though, it’s important to invest in the right improvements to attract qualified buyers. Now only what you do, but how you do it. In Lafayette, that means paying attention to quality of design, materials, and workmanship.
Almost always, a home will need fresh paint, a deep cleaning, and close attention to the floors. You might be surprised, though, at other things that make a home seller to-do list.
Recently, for example, we sold a home that had an older but spotlessly clean kitchen. The wood floors, though, were newly refinished, paint was fresh and the carpet looked great. There was also new sod in the backyard. Of course, it was beautifully staged, too. All of this made a huge difference and helped attract multiple offers!
Next Steps If You Are Considering Selling Your Lafayette Home
Home seller to-do list decisions are specific to your property and budget, but also need to be considered alongside our hyper-local real estate market dynamics and current buyer expectations.
Start by walking around your home, inside and out. Make a list of what you think should change. Before you pull out your credit card, though, consider reaching out to ask for advice from your trusted real estate professional. It might just save you money, time and hard work.
I am happy to be that person for you. Just contact me at Dana@DanaGreenTeam.com or 925.339.1918. We’ll start by walking around your house together.
It’s never too early in your process to call me. The more time you build in to prepare your home for sale, the easier it is for you!
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