How to Make Your Investment More Appealing

Posted on: June 07, 2007

Making a home appealing to renters and buyers doesn’t always require big bucks and tons of time. There are many small steps landlords and homeowners can take that can make a big impact.

Here are 7 ideas that work for me:

1. Spruce up the mailbox. Time and weather can give mailboxes a beating. A quick coat of paint and new numbers can make a great first impression.
   
2. Mow the lawn, sweep the walk, trim landscaping, and add color.
   
3. Pay attention tot he front entrance. If you don’t want to repaint the entire exterior, consider refurbishing the front door. Polish the hardware, add a kick-plate or doorknocker.
   
4. Polish the kitchen and bathrooms. These are the rooms that renters and buyers want to shine.
   
5. Let there be light. Open shutters, shades, and draperies to brighten rooms. Turn on lights and add higher watt bulbs to dark areas like basements.
   
6. Have carpets cleaned, especially in high-traffic areas. If you hire someone, be sure it is a truck mounted system.
   
7. Replace switch and outlet covers, replace or add towel rackes, vent covers, etc.
   

Good luck marketing your property!

Article written by Doug Waddle, Broker for portlandrealestate.com.