Large neutral tile is a modern choice for bathrooms.
An older home can be charming but still in need of updates before you can flip it, or sell it for a profit. Electrical wiring, in particular, can require wholesale replacement. The kitchen is the focal point of many homes and may entail the most expense to upgrade. You'll likely want to change the color of the home's surfaces, too; neutral colors for the interior and external walls, as well as for bathroom tile and porcelain fixtures, are more appealing to the modern buyer. Click on the link in the Resources section for additional ideas.
Instructions
1. Check the electrical wiring. Older homes may have outdated fuse boxes that will have to be replaced in order for a buyer to be approved for a loan. A circuit breaker box must have ample power to run modern appliances and meet city ordinances, and the box should have sufficient room for expansion. Electrical outlets should have three-prong receptacles, and GFCI -- ground fault circuit interrupter -- receptacles need to be installed near sources of water to prevent shock.
2. Update the kitchen. Kitchen cabinets are one of the first things prospective buyers notice; refinish or replace them. Modern buyers also want attractive countertops and backsplashes, and stainless steel appliances are an added bonus for many homeowners. Overhead fluorescent tube lighting should be replaced with recessed lighting for optimal appeal. The kitchen floor should be attractive and modern-looking, so replace worn-out linoleum. Replace stained or chipped kitchen sinks.
3. Update the bathroom. Styles and color preferences have changed over the years, and an older bathroom dramatically reflects such changing trends. Replace stained or chipped fixtures. Wall tile should be large and a neutral color in order to appeal to the most people. Floor tile should be attractive and reflect modern tastes. A large mirror and vanity lighting are always appreciated. Modern buyers will want either a window or an exhaust fan in the bathroom.
4. Inspect the flooring. Clean carpets or replace them with neutral colors. Hardware floors should gleam and be free from damage. Tile floors need to look modern and thoroughly clean. If the grout is badly discolored or crumbling, you may have to call in a professional to do the work. Clean the windows, both inside and out, and replace any broken glass or sashes. Check for water damage around the windows and repair where needed.
5. Paint the interior in a neutral color and make sure to include the ceilings. Pay particular attention to water stains when painting; they will need to be primed, or the stain may bleed through the paint. Make sure the front door is painted and the threshold replaced if it is worn or water-damaged. Paint the exterior of the house if needed. Finally, clean up the yard and plant flowers near the front door, if weather permits.
Related posts
Fix up a House for SellingIf you want to sell your house, you will need to get it ready to put on the market. Many homes only need minor adjustments or repairs before they can be sold. Follow thes...
Light, neutral colors cover many modern homes.A neutral palette with occasional bright accents is the core of modern exterior paint design. Your exact color choice will depend on your area, becaus...
Contemporary rooms use neutral tones as paint colors.One of the simplest and least expensive ways to revamp a room in a new style is through painting. Contemporary decorating is a comfortable appr...
The shutters on your home are a part of the overall exterior design.Each part of your home is an important part of how its presented to others. The inside of your home is all about matching furnit...
Get your house ready before you put up the "For Sale" sign.Selling a home in today's real estate market can be difficult. While price is the main deciding factor for buyers, the National...
