McClelland Minute - August 01, 2010

Debatable Home Improvement Ideas

We are often asked in to clients’ homes to offer recommendations on what improvements will provide increased value upon re-sale.  Here are some of things on the “do” or “not to do” list.

Swimming pools, saunas and hot tubs are wonderful personal choice enhancements but most buyers could care less.  In fact, they may even be scared of moisture issues or don’t want to be burdened with energy costs or maintenance.  I have seen buyers discount their offers significantly to allow for pools to be filled in giving them more space.

Over the top designs like turrets, super high vaulted ceilings, or the fanciest wine making room in three counties.  If you stick out from the other houses in the neighbourhood, be sure that it is tasteful, not whimsical.  One owner was very proud of his multi-head supersized shower with imported tile however it really looked out of place in the basement of a 1,200 sq ft bungalow.

On the flip side, a fresh looking bathroom is always an eye catcher and can add several thousand dollars to the bottom line.  I believe kitchens and bathrooms sell many houses.  If you have quality cabinetry but tired countertops, consider a new top complimented by modern hardware.  And show it off, by keeping the clutter off of it.

I have seen some very fancy home offices, some complete with fireplaces and leather couches, but I believe that less is more.  The buyer must feel there is more usable space in it than what they currently have and that it can be converted when necessary to a guest room.   And please, clean out the old VHS collection and any other items that crowd the closet.

Metal roofs are not for everybody.  If not installed properly, they may leak, and can be difficult to repair.  Consider quality shingles instead if you are going to be selling anyway.  The same goes for skylights.  The one time I really thought a skylight added sizzle was the installation of the stovepipe type in an interior bathroom of a lake home.  It introduced natural light into a room that didn’t have any.

Central air conditioning is becoming more common in Midwest homes.  If you can’t afford it, consider some strategically placed ceiling fans.

Brighten up basements as best you can with some decent flooring, cheerful paint colours, and good lighting.

But still the best improvement a seller can make is a clean home and yard.  More and more buyers look for a property someone has taken pride in.

Vern McClelland is associate broker with RE/MAX of Lloydminster.  If you have questions or comments on this article or other real estate matters, he can be reached at 780.808.2700 or through the McClelland Group website www.mcclelland.ca

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