With the Spring market just around the corner, I’ve been talking a lot about being proactive when it comes to the sale of your home. Now is the time to start thinking about how to increase value and marketability as we enter into one of the busiest real estate seasons of the year.

As a homeowner, you’ve probably had one or two things you’ve wanted to improve in your home. And the reality is, even if you think your home is fine as it is, a few “refreshing” elements can drastically increase the price your home is sold for.

Whether you’re getting ready to sell your home or want to spiff it up inexpensively for your own enjoyment, here are 5 inexpensive improvements for you to consider.

1. Paint

It might be obvious, but you would be incredibly surprised at what a fresh coat of paint will do to your space.

When you’re selling your home, it’s best to stick with neutral colours across the board. Pick off-white, beige and cream shades to create a “blank canvas”.

The psychology behind this is intended to give potential prospects an ability to envision their own décor and paint colours in the space — without feeling overwhelmed and distracted with bright and loud paint colours that are more attuned to your personal preference and style.

More than just your walls, giving a paint-facelift to any cabinetry, furniture, crown molding or any other décor items can instantly transform something from old to new.

On the outside, a fresh coat of paint will give new life to garage doors, outdoor trimming, crown molding and front doors to bring modernity and brightness back in.

2. Get electrical

It’s often very worthwhile to hire an electrician and plumber for a couple of hours to look over your electrical services, wrap or fix loose wires, fix any faulty outlets, and check for and fix any water leaks.

This is an inexpensive improvement that potential home-buyers appreciate being included prior to the purchase of their new property.

Small plumbing and electrical details tell a buyer that someone has really taken care of the home and can really influence its price.

3. Clean your Carpet 

Carpeting is another detail that can quickly update a home and make it look cleaner. A professional carpet cleaning is an inexpensive investment, especially if your rugs are in good shape and are neutral colors.

As a general rule of thumb, I don’t normally suggest replacing wall-to-wall carpeting right before you sell your house. The new homeowners may want to choose their own carpeting after they move in.

4. Brighten Up

Updating the light fixtures can quite literally and figurately brighten up your space and bring in fresh perspectives.

If you have dark-lit, recessed lights in your dining and living rooms, consider replacing the light fixtures with an eye-catching chandelier. Home stores offer a wide range of inexpensive, but nice-looking, ceiling fixtures these days.

If you have a ceiling fan and light, you can also buy replacement fan blades (leaving the fan body in place) to update the fixture’s look.

Also consider updating your outlet and light switch plates with sleek black lacquered versions that look more modern.

5. Upgrade your landscaping

While it’s still winter conditions outside and you don’t necessarily have the ability to completely overhaul your landscaping there are a few small things you can introduce that add to your outdoor landscaping.

Window boxes, hanging baskets and other winter-hardy containers all are beneficial for winter landscaping. Fill containers with evergreen boughs of different textures, colors and interesting twigs.

Investing in landscape lighting can be another inexpensive improvement that can make your outdoor living look that much more elevated. Place lanterns or pot lights along outdoor pathways, a patio or a deck.

As I’ve mentioned before, the best way to see success in real estate this season starts with being proactive. A few small tweaks to your residence can do wonders in the marketability and overall price of the home. If you’re interested in getting into the market soon, contact me to help.