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Home Improvement Projects That Add Value
As summer approaches and the days are sunnier, you may be looking at your home in a new light. What appeared to be great in winter now seems tired and in need of refurbishing. If you are contemplating starting home improvement projects that add value, it might be helpful to know what renovations return the most at resale. Before spending thousands of dollars, consider the West Coast’s average recoup values. Below are the top four renovations that yield a high return on your investment for 2023.
Electric HVAC System Conversion: 104.8% Cost Recouped
While not the most exciting project, converting your HVAC system from gas to electric adds value to your home. Appliances powered by natural gas have been banned or restricted in new buildings by several major cities, including Seattle, to reduce pollution and climate change. So if you decide to make the change, you will be ahead of the curve.
Regardless, before making a decision, take time to consider all the pros and cons. Overall, moving away from natural gas is safer. Without gas, there isn’t a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. And electric HVAC systems tend to be cheaper than gas to install and run more quietly. Yet, keeping an electric heater running in winter tends to cost more. If you do decide to make the change, know that it’s a complicated process and not a DIY project. It’s best to hire a professional for this home improvement project because it impacts the wiring and connectivity of your whole home.
Siding Replacement: 98.3% Cost Recouped
Siding replacement is a home improvement project that can make your life easier in the long run. Vinyl siding is very low maintenance, doesn’t need painting, and is low cost compared to other types of siding. Thanks to the durability of vinyl siding, you don’t have to worry about chipped paint, and dirt easily washes off. It also tends to last decades, with time frames varying depending on the weather.
To further consider this specific project, check out the pros and cons of vinyl siding. In general, it’s popular and will give your home a great new look. It’s even been proven to better insulate homes and decrease energy costs. If you plan on selling your home in the near future, pick a vinyl siding color that boosts your home’s curb appeal.
Garage Door Replacement: 96.8% Cost Recouped
Garage doors are constantly being used multiple times a day and are destined to experience wear and tear. Additionally, the outside of the garage door is continuously being exposed to the elements. Whether you want something that works better or are interested in a technology upgrade, or need to replace rotting wood, replacing your garage door is a worthwhile investment. That said, it’s not necessarily as simple as you might think. So, to get started, consider these top questions to ask yourself regarding material, whether or not to hire a professional and more.
Entry Door Replacement: 88.7% Cost Recouped
Coming in fourth on the list is replacing your front door with steel. While wood doors are lovely and offer a classic style and quality, they aren’t truly timeless. Installing a new steel entry door delivers long-lasting beauty with increased durability. A steel door is also more energy efficient and provides greater security. A brand-new steel door is a solid investment, especially if your front door is old and tired, and there are many steel door options to consider.
Hopefully, this list sparks some ideas. As you evaluate the best home improvement projects that add value and are right for you, take time to also consider if you need to address any urgent home repairs as well. And, if you’re looking for some great gadgets to increase your home’s cool factor, this list has fun ideas.
8 Tips When Preparing to Sell
Preparing to sell your home can feel overwhelming, so we’ve compiled some useful bits of advice to make sure you’re on your way to a job well done. From pricing to staging, there are many factors to keep in mind. We’re here to make the selling process smoother and more successful. Read on to gain helpful tips you can use today.
1. Determine your moving timeline
Begin the home selling process by examining your personal timeline. Are the dates flexible or are you on a set schedule? Knowing the answer to these questions will help you make the right decisions regarding the repairs and home projects you should complete. Additionally, it’s important to establish clear expectations with everyone involved, including your local listing agent.
2. Consult with a listing agent when preparing to sell
A knowledgeable listing agent will guide you through the process of selling your home. They will provide you with up-to-date information including local market trends so you can make well-informed decisions. In addition to listing the home, the agent will show the property and coordinate all aspects of the real estate transaction. It’s important to take your time and find someone you work well with and trust.
3. Get a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA)
A real estate agent will be able to conduct a Comparative Market Analysis or CMA. A CMA is a detailed report that compares your property to similar listings in the area. It allows the agent to examine market trends and determine an appropriate list price base on other nearby homes. It will also help you determine if any potential upgrades or remodels will be worthwhile.
4. Complete upgrades with a high return on investment (if it makes financial sense)
After consulting with a listing agent and looking at a Comparative Market Analysis, you’ll want to consider completing home upgrades with a high return on investment. Take into account your moving timeline and the risk/reward of doing certain upgrades. Your local real estate guide will be able to discuss all options with you to see if the projects are worthwhile.
5. Conduct a pre-inspection when preparing to sell
Did you know a seller can conduct a pre-inspection before listing the home? This inspection will identify any repairs or problems that may need to be addressed before selling. Also, providing a buyer with a pre-inspection can create a sense of trust. Being upfront about the condition of the home demonstrates transparency.
6. Identify and make necessary repairs
After consulting with a listing agent, and examining the CMA and pre-inspection, it is time to get to work. Ensure the home has all major repairs completed before listing and showing it. Repair all roof leaks or missing shingles, and ensure there are no plumbing or gas leaks. Check that the home’s foundation is solid and repair any electrical issues. Finally, make sure all pest control measures have been completed prior to listing. If there are any potential red flags regarding your property, this is the time to address those issues.
7. Consider the Windermere Ready Loan Program
If making repairs and preparing the property for selling seems daunting due to the upfront expenses, consider the Windermere Ready Loan program. This program offers up to $50,000 in expenses incurred. It is a six-month loan with no payments due during that time. It is then paid off in one lump sum once the property is sold. Many home sellers and their agents have reported success, saying that the program helped them sell their homes for more and in less time.
8. Stage your home when preparing to sell
According to Forbes, staged homes sell 87% faster than non-staged homes. Staging allows prospective buyers to easily imagine themselves in your home. It presents homes in an enticing way. And, the majority of buyers look at homes online first, so excellent photos of well-staged spaces can make a huge difference in the number and types of offers you receive.
Listing and selling a home is a labor-intensive process that requires a team effort. Our local Windermere experts are here to help you sell your home efficiently and successfully.
Our Fall Home Maintenance Checklist
Vibrant colors and gourds galore – autumn in the Pacific Northwest is a beautiful season, and it’s also an important time to prepare your home for colder weather. From cleaning gutters to weatherproofing, fall home maintenance is a must in our region. Otherwise, you could be facing some costly consequences down the road. Here’s our handy checklist to ensure your home is ready.
Clean gutters and chimneys
Without regular maintenance, your home’s gutters can get so clogged they can cause damage and leaks. So, it’s important to stay on top of this seasonal task. In fact, clogged gutters are one of the top home repairs you should never put off. Clear out all debris including leaves and pine needles, and then test them by flushing them out with the hose. Additionally, make sure the downspouts drain away from the house or into your street. You never want any water to pool back towards your home’s foundation.
When it’s time to cozy up to your fireplace, you definitely don’t want to be dealing with cracks and soot. They can become fire hazards. So take time to check and clean your chimney.
Do some HVAC fall maintenance
In addition to your regular annual HVAC maintenance, do your own little inspection to ensure it is ready for colder weather. Power it off, wait for the blower to stop, and then vacuum out all of the vents. Next, replace the air filters, which should be changed every three to six months (timing depends on their thickness). Finally, turn it back on and make sure the intake vent is sucking in the air as it should be, and that you feel the warm air. If anything seems off, call a local HVAC professional.
Make sure your house is well sealed
A well-sealed home will prevent drafts and high utility bills. Weatherproof entry points to the outdoors including your garage, doors, windows, and exterior siding. If you see a gap, install new or larger seals. If the gap is large, use backer rod, a foam tubing. Then you’ll need to apply the caulking over that. A weather strip works well if you notice a gap with your garage door. When it comes to your windows, caulking, flashing, and additional sealing may be needed.
Your home’s siding should be weatherproofed too. Repair any cracked paint and look for any cracked caulking. If needed, remove cracked caulking with a razor blade and replace it with a new bead of exterior-specific caulk. The last thing you want is for the elements or pests to get in and damage your home.
Prevent pests
Rodents love finding warm places when it gets cold, and they can really damage your property. So, do all you can to prevent them from moving into your attic, crawl space, or basement. Prune back any branches that may hang onto your roof. Don’t store anything in your crawl space since that serves as an invitation for critters to burrow there. Check your attic regularly and keep it as clean and tidy as possible. If you hear scuttling overhead or find droppings anywhere, take immediate action.
Prepare your yard
You may have already thought about how the time is nearing to put away your lawn furniture, but have you also thought about storing your lawn tools, hoses, and your grill? And, are the tools you will need ready to go?
Fall is also the time to prune, clear out garden beds, fertilize, and reseed. And, if you have a green thumb, here’s a helpful fall gardening checklist for Zone 8b, complete with maintenance tips through fall into winter.
8 Home Repairs You Should Not Put Off
As a homeowner, knowing what repairs deserve immediate attention isn’t always easy. Determining whether a crack in the wall is a simple paint job or an indication of something bigger requires both time and effort. But addressing certain repairs promptly can save you money and reduce your stress in the long term. To help you know when it’s time to contact an expert, we’ve put together a list of eight home repairs that should not be put off.
1. Missing Shingles
Keeping the roof in great condition is key to a happy and healthy home. Consequently, your roof deserves extra care and attention. After intense stormy weather, check for missing shingles. (But only if you can do so safely with a ladder!) While having one or two missing shingles doesn’t sound serious, these small openings can lead to much more costly problems in the future such as water damage and roof sagging.
2. Roof Leaks
If you see water leaks in your ceiling or attic, this is a clear sign that your roof needs repairs. While a good roof can last a long time, there are still areas in a roof that are more susceptible to rain including skylights and chimneys. In general, addressing roof leaks promptly is essential. Delays can lead to more complex and expensive issues such as water damage, mold, and structural problems.
3. Plumbing Leaks
Pipes run throughout your home carrying water to your kitchen, laundry nook, and bathrooms. But these high-use areas are also places where water can drip and cause trouble. Check under your sinks at least once a year to monitor for leaks. Also, keep watch for peeling paint, water stains, and damaged flooring. If you see any of these signs, call a plumber at once to avoid more serious issues such as black mold or extensive structural repairs.
4. Clogged Gutters
While gutters aren’t necessarily chic or cool, they are still an essential part of your home. By drawing rain away from your house, they play a key role in keeping your home dry and happy. Clogged gutters allow water to pool and can cause wood rot and substantial damage to the foundation. Make sure your gutters are clear with routine cleaning.
5. Foundation Cracks
A solid foundation defines the health and longevity of your home. As your home ages, small cracks can develop over time. It’s best to address these cracks right away before they become larger and spread. Ignoring foundation fissures can lead to exponentially more costly repairs in the long term. When it comes to the foundation, do your home and your pocketbook a favor by taking action.
6. Gas Leaks
When you have appliances powered by natural gas, it’s vital to be vigilant about potential leaks. If you detect an unmistakable rotten egg smell, most likely it’s the odorant added to natural gas to help identify leaks. As soon as you smell something, contact your gas company and leave your home. If not dealt with, a gas leak can lead to a fire or even an explosion. Only re-enter your house when the gas company says it’s safe.
7. Electrical Issues
Using devices that require electricity is a big part of modern life. In many homes, this can lead to overtaxing the electric system. This is especially the case in older homes with antiquated wiring that can’t handle multiple devices and overburdened power strips. If you notice flickering lights, strange sizzling sounds, warm or hot outlets, or circuit breakers that trip, call an electrician to prevent a fire. According to Electrical Safety Foundation International, more than 51,000 electrical fires happen each year in the U.S.
8. Pest Control
If you find any uninvited critters living in your home, don’t let them get too comfortable. In Kitsap County, two of the most common pests are the Norway rat and the house mouse. Both have a reputation for chewing wiring, damaging structures, eating food, and carrying diseases. The Washington State Department of Health has tips for how to deal with rodents, but it may be easier to call a professional pest control company.
In addition, if you’re thinking of selling your home in the near future, some repairs can also increase your home’s value such as having a new roof. This is something else to keep in mind as you consider the above list of eight home repairs.
Want to Sell Your Home? Here Are 5 Things to Consider
Selling your home is a big decision and it involves a lot of moving parts. Luckily, we have compiled a list of things to consider, whether you want to sell in three months or three years.
1. Timeline
Create a desired timeline involving the selling of your current home and the purchasing of your next home. While properties can’t always close in record time or produce the exact results you’re hoping for, it helps to at least begin with a general idea with extra time built in for adjustments to be made (when possible). Whether you’re ready for more space or to downsize, you’ll save time and manage expectations if you’re able to plan out what you think needs to be done in advance. Check out this helpful guide to selling your home.
2. Renovation and Curb Appeal
What’s that old saying that our parents told us? Always leave the place better than you found it. Selling a house is no exception. Get ahead of the game by considering areas of your home that could use renovations, upgrades, or a deep clean. These changes can increase your home’s value, allowing you to sell your home for top dollar. Don’t forget the exterior either! The outside of your house will be a home buyer’s first impression, so you want to do whatever you can to increase its curb appeal.
3. Costs
Yes, even selling your house comes with fees. Start putting together an estimate of how much it will potentially cost so that you’re prepared and know what to expect. For more information, here are 10 costs associated with selling your home.
4. Your Advocate
Selling your home can often feel overwhelming, which is why you want an attentive agent who understands your needs and will act as your advocate, local expert, and guide. This person will be working closely with you, so finding the right fit will make the process much easier. Treat this almost like an interview. Ask them about their sales history, how up to date they are on the local real estate market, and if they have a list of preferred local vendors. Another key aspect to consider: their communication style. You want to sell your home with someone who fits with your personality and is responsive, dependable, and helpful.
5. Staging
Taking the time to strategically showcase each area of your home will help buyers imagine themselves living there. And, staged homes sell 87% faster and for 17% more on average than non-staged homes. Additionally, the Windermere Ready program is a great option to consider. You’ll have the knowledge and guidance of one of our local agents, and the option of up to $50,000 in assistance for expenses incurred in preparing to list your home.
Looking for more information or want to discuss your specific needs? Contact one of our agents. They’re happy to assist and can provide a free market analysis so you can see what your home is worth.
Selling Your Home is Now Easier: Windermere Invests to Impress
When it comes to selling your home, first impressions are everything. We believe this so strongly that we created the Windermere Ready program. With concierge-level service, our program prepares your home for the market with guidance from a local expert as well as financial assistance, if needed.
Sell For More in Less Time
On average, sellers who make necessary repairs and upgrades before selling generally sell their home for more and in less time. Of course, every home is unique, but preparation is often the key to success.
Our Windermere Ready program provides:
- One-on-one consultation
- A personalized plan
- High impact updates
- Professional staging
We all know that buyers prefer stylish, turnkey homes. But it can be challenging to know which repairs and upgrades will get the biggest return. That’s why we offer an individualized approach. One of our local real estate experts will work with you to determine what needs to be done with your timeline and needs in mind.
After they identify your top home improvement priorities, they will develop a plan of action. They will connect you with preferred local service providers, assist with a work schedule, and make any necessary arrangements. Working with a highly skilled professional also means your home will be correctly priced so you’ll avoid the dangers of an overpriced home.
Update Your Home to Make an Impact
Sometimes the smallest updates can make the biggest impact on a buyer. A home with real curb appeal, a fresh coat of paint, and a sparkling clean interior can exude warmth and charm. Even something small yet noticeable like a stylish light fixture or updated kitchen cabinet hardware can really enhance a house and make it feel like a home.
Here are some of the items that we focus on:
- Interior and Exterior Painting
- Window Washing
- Landscaping
- Carpet Cleaning/Replacement
- Floor Repair/Refinishing
- Fixture Repair or Replacement
- Cosmetic Updates
- Decluttering
- Professional Deep Cleaning
Stage Your Home to Create the Best Experience
In addition to making needed repairs and updates, we highly recommend staging your home. With the help of professional stagers, you can boost your bottom line. A staged home allows buyers to easily see themselves living there. Our expert stagers know how to use light, color, texture, and space to effectively highlight the best features of each room. According to Forbes, staged homes sell 87% faster and for 17% more than non-staged homes.
We’re Invested in Your Success, Literally
If needed, we can offer up to $50,000 to assist with expenses incurred, and there’s no upfront cost to you. The loan term is six months and no monthly payments are due during that time. The loan is paid off in one lump sum when the collateral property is sold. If you’d like more information about our Windermere Ready Loan, please contact us today.
