If you are selling your home this year, there are a few things to consider that might help you move the sale along faster or get a better price. Read on to discover some ways you can maximize your home sale experience.
According to a 2011 study presented in Remodeling Magazine, entryway improvements and deck replacements are among the ten improvements most likely to pay back when you sell your home. Furthermore, good-looking entryways, decks, and porches add a lot of curb appeal.
Linda Windisch, a real estate agent with Northwood Realty in Wexford, PA, says the entryway is one of the first areas she examines when helping a homeowner prepare to sell. Says Windisch, “I’m encouraged when I see railings, decks, and porches in good condition. It makes it so much easier to bring the house to market.”
And why not? An attractive front porch and entryway create the all-important good first impression. An appealing deck helps potential buyers imagine the pleasure of gathering with family and friends—perhaps as soon as moving day! These assets can help give your home that sought-after label: “Move-in condition.”
But it’s not just about appearances, says Windisch. “Railing, fence, porch, and deck maintenance are really important to the entire sale process,” she says, “because they figure heavily in the building inspection.” She grades homes into five levels based on their condition. “With each level decrease, you can expect to lose about three percent off the final sale price,” she says.
Windisch concludes, “I encourage people always to keep their homes current with the market, not just when they’re going to sell. That way, they can enjoy those upgrades and replacements while living there.”
What if you are getting ready to sell and it has been a while since your entryway, deck, or porch was installed? Replacement railings, post caps, and vinyl wraps cost only a fraction of a full deck or porch replacement, but can result in a completely updated look. And while you’re upgrading appearances, you can also check on the safety and code-compliance of guardrails and handrails. This will help you get past the scrutiny of a home inspection.
Railing Safety Inspection:
A safety inspection should precede your railing replacement. Here are five safety points to consider:
- When the potential buyer or building inspector grasps the handrail, will it feel completely stable?
- Is the height and length of the handrail appropriate? Does it meet local code?
- Does the height of the guardrail meet code and provide adequate protection?
- Is the spacing between balusters (vertical spindles in a railing) too wide? Are any balusters broken or missing?
- Are there obvious splinters, popped nails, or discolored areas?
Upgrading your railings, decks, and porches improves safety and adds instant curb appeal. The right updates can help your home stand out, easily pass inspection, and sell faster at the best price.
