Designer T. Cordelle Louis, co-founder of Design Theory, says homeowners can do many things to improve their home's sales potential. She advises homeowners to work with a professional designer who can put together a comprehensive plan for the visual touches. Louis says cosmetic changes don't have to cost a lot and even more expensive structural upgrades often are far offset by the money a well-designed home can bring.
Here are some tips to help sell that home!
--Paint: Painting with a color scheme will create a fresh look.
--Window Treatments: Adding window coverings that are neutral and that complement the rest of the home will be more visually appealing.
--Purge: Remove the clutter. Pack up, sell or donate anything that is not truly needed.
--Furniture: Staging or rearranging furniture allows a potential buyer to visualize how the areas can be laid out. Keep in mind you want to retain a spacious feeling without making it feel sparse.
--Cleaning and maintenance: Go through your home and do a thorough "spring cleaning." Make sure all lighting fixtures have functioning bulbs. Remove household odors.
--Accessorize: Add some plants, accent pillows, and accessories to give it some punch. In the kitchen, cookbooks, spices and small appliances can be used as a great visual effect.
--Electrical: Adding recessed lighting, rewiring or upgrading an out-of-date electrical panel will add a lot of value to the home
--Plumbing: Changing out rotting pipes or upgrading to copper piping is recommended.
--Flooring: Changing carpet to hardwood flooring will raise value as well as attract buyers with allergy issues.
--Remodeling: Upgrading kitchen and bathrooms, changing out windows for more efficient types, and adding sustainable or "green" features are ways to increase your return and may be key to "closing the deal." A bonus would be adding something your neighbors don't have such as a home theater room, since much of today's entertaining is taking place in the home.
Design Theory (www.design-theory.com) works with both residential and commercial clients and is home to downtown LA's premier retail furniture showroom.
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