We often hear that making improvements to kitchens and bathrooms are wise moves in helping to sell a home. In addition to these rooms, what other areas are smart investments?
I believe anytime you can update a bathroom or kitchen you have an opportunity to improve the resale of your home. The current-day homebuyer wants to buy a house that is already updated. They want open floor plans, 9-10’ ceilings, custom millwork, wood flooring – light and bright with all the bells and whistles.
What special expertise can a designer lend to guide homeowners in protecting their investment?
Buyers don’t always have the knowledge or vision to update a space, and for most it can be daunting. For a design professional, it is something we do every day. Having the ability to work with both builders and architects on a multitude of projects, we have exposure to design challenges and decisions. It is our job to keep abreast of current trends and new materials, as well as an understanding of the cost of each decision.
Color can be very attractive, but it’s highly subjective. What advice would you give in this department?
Use light colors to keep the home feeling open and airy. Dark paints will make the space feel smaller, which can also be intentional to create drama or establish a mood in a room. Color is very personal. If resale is the goal, I might suggest staying with more neutral and lighter colors to open up the space. Less change-up in color from room to room will also create a better flow and make the home feel larger.
There are some improvements that can be costly but won’t necessarily help a home to sell. Can you talk about some that should be avoided or at least be considered carefully?
I would not spend money on bedding, draperies, and accessories unless they are neutral.
