My last post outlined the factors that affect the value of your Wenatchee home (or a home anywhere). Some of those factors included "hard facts" that cannot be changed (without considerable cost). Today, I would like to discuss ways to maximize the value of your property in spite of these set factors.
Square footage: If your home is small, it is important to make it look "spacious". It is always important to declutter when you put a home on the market and even more so if the living space is limited. Keep counter spaces clean, remove any unnecessary furniture, decorative trinkets and other items (in all rooms) that aren't necessary for daily living. This will open up the available space and make it seem more spacious. Also, don't stuff things in storage spaces. Make them look spacious, as well. If all available storage (including the garage) looks FULL, it will give a perception of not enough storage space in the home. It may behoove you to rent a storage unit or borrow some space from a family member or friend. The article, linked above, also has some painting and design tip to help.
Location: This is a tricky one... and a good example of why you should understand the importance of the link between value and location BEFORE you ever buy a home. Location is probably the most critical factor in a property's value. The ugliest home in a good location is of greater value than a similar, beautifully maintained, home in a poor location. If you find yourself in a situation where you ARE trying to sell a home in a poor location, look around and see if there is anything you can do to improve the surroundings. Perhaps, a few dollars (and hours) invested in helping the neighbors spruce up their property would be a good investment. This must be done in a tactful way, of course. And, being on good terms with your neighbors is always helpful in getting them to cooperate in helping you attract a desirable buyer. If you love your location, but your home is just too small or doesn't meet your needs for another reason, remodeling or an addition may be a good choice. When you factor the cost of the remodeling (offset by the cost of selling), it very well may be a good choice to stay put.
Lot size: Again, as with square footage, the lot size is what it is. If the lot is small, you must attempt to make it look as spacious as possible. Keep it clean and minimally cluttered. If the lot is large, keep it well maintained and look as low maintenance as possible. You don't want people loving the lot size but cringing at the thought of all the time that will be required to maintain it. Some people LOVE yard work, but most people are busy and want to "play" in their spare time.
Please contact me if I can help you navigate through the decisions involved in buying or selling your Wenatchee area home.
Erin Davidson
Wenatchee Real Estate Agent
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