Just read this in the latest REALTOR magazine. Over 600 real estate professionals were interviewed to discover which DIY home improvements give sellers the biggest bang for their buck. Hope you find it useful.
1. Cleaning and de-cluttering. Remove personal items, declutter countertops-get your home super clean!
2. Brightening. Clean all windows-inside and out. Remove anything that blocks windows/light. Make sure you do not have burned out bulbs in light fixtures.
3. Staging. This doesn't necessarily mean you need to have all new furniture brought in, but consider rearranging your existing furniture. Again-de-clutter and provide a comfortable ambiance. Perhaps have soft music playing in the background.
4. Landscaping. Curb appeal is super important. Make yours more attractive by adding mulch, bushes and flowers. Pull weeds. Don't forget the back and side yards as well!
5. Repair electrical & plumbing. Fix leaks, remove mildew stains. Fix lights or outlets that aren't working and replace old plug points with new safety features.
6. Replace or shampoo your carpets. Pet stains, etc. on carpets is such a turn off. Also consider fixing any creaking floor boards.
*Excerpted from HomeGain's 2011 Home Sale Maximizer Survey.