But I spent a ton of money on that!

Sometimes what you see as important or necessary improvements on your home may not pay off or be as important to potential buyers. Here's a great article that talks about the worst renovations and "upgrades" you can give your home when it comes to selling your home. Keep in mind, if you want the best return on your money (which still won't be full value) concentrate on kitchens and bathrooms. Along the way, you're going to have necessary improvements (like a new roof, windows, etc) but you often won't see much return on your investment.

Keep the small things in mind that can really spruce up your home for showings. Things like updating bathrooms and lighting fixtures, eye catching decor, and modernize window coverings. And perhaps most of all, having a clean and clutter free home. This includes finding ways to eliminate pet odors, minimizing clutter on shelves and in closets, and scraping the fuzzy dirt off your ceiling fan blades.

If you need assistance before listing your home for more ideas, contact a trusted real estate professional or a home stagger.

What upgrades are the best in cost vs. value?

As a REALTOR, one of the most common questions I get is homeowners wondering what areas of their house they should be investing money to upgrade. If you only have a limited amount of money to improve your home, you obviously want to get the best return on it when you sell. I always recommend concentrating on 1) curb appeal (exterior) 2) kitchen 3) bathrooms. There are also small things you can upgrade around the home such as switchplates, lighting fixtures, baseboards, paint colors, etc. that can bring a new and vibrant look to your house. But don't just rely on my opinion, check out the study that was just released in September 2008 on remodeling projects that pay. If you don't have the time and money to invest in major projects, check out the 8 Quick Fixes instead. Most of all, I would encourage you as a homeowner to not wait until you're ready to move to remodel. I've heard it from many sellers - they fix up the house to prepare it to sell, and then they wish they could stay there because they love the new wood floors, remodeled bathroom, and rooms that have been white for 30 years that now have a paint color they love. Take pride in your investment and make it a place you love spending time.

If you're considering a remodel, contact me today and I will be happy to send you a discount certificate to Lowe's Hardware Store to begin your project.