remodel of $20,000 yields a much higher ROI than a $55,000 overhaul. Buyers might love a large kitchen with an island and shiny appliances, but they won’t be as impressed by custom cupboards or imported gadgets that could double as spaceship controls. Basements can be another tricky area. A large, cozy rec room might appeal, but it often won’t count as living space in an appraisal or the home’s listed square footage. If you’re planning to move in less than five years, consider a basic, budget-friendly finish, allowing the buyer to customize it to their own tastes. The Bottom Line: Don’t Neglect the Basics Finally, don’t overlook the fundamentals. Buyers expect the basics—no leaky pipes, a working furnace, and outlets that don’t pop a breaker when used. Issues like mold, a leaky roof, or damaged carpet can turn off a buyer, no matter how stunning the kitchen or bathrooms are. Some of these issues, especially less visible ones like an aging furnace or water heater, might seem like a waste of money if you’re planning to sell soon, but they’re actually crucial. Even if buyers don’t notice these issues on their first walk- through, appraisers and inspectors will. An appraiser will factor aging equipment and worn flooring into the home’s value. A home inspector will point out that even if everything is running smoothly now, a 25-year-old furnace is living on borrowed time. This might lead a buyer to want the cost of a new one deducted from the sale price. So, if you’re planning to move soon, it’s worth investing in basic system repairs or replacements. These improvements may not add significant value, but they won’t subtract value either—and they’ll help your home sell faster. New, energy-efficient furnaces and air conditioning units can also be a selling point, with the added bonus of potential tax credits, easing your initial investment. And remember, even if these repairs don’t boost the sale price, they’ll make the selling process smoother and stress-free.
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