Buying a Home That Needs Work

Don't Overlook a Worthy Investment
As a real estate agent, I know how important first impressions are. However, a home is a huge INVESTMENT, and sometimes buyers overlook a property that can quickly build equity just
because it isn't the prettiest option.

I realize stone counter tops look sleek, open floor plans expand space, and neutral colors have overall appeal. But when purchasing a home this may be short sighted. Home buyers are often manipulated by the glitz! Sometimes the quickest way to build equity is to purchase the "ugly duckling" or "plain Jane". If the systems are updated and the floor plan is functional but the house shows poorly, then simple changes may be all that is standing between you and home equity. Don't assume all changes involve huge outlays of cash, mess, or time.


Consider these cost saving solutions to some "Ugly" issues.

Popcorn or Textured Ceilings

Most people look up and first think "yuck", then think, messy to fix. However, this may be short sighted. As long as the ceilings are high enough, they can be wrapped with sheet rock. This simply means screwing sheet rock to the existing ceiling and finishing - Cheaper and Cleaner.

Spiral Staircase
Often added in the 1970's to homes with tight spaces, as a primary staircase they are impractical and dangerous for small children.

  

Believe it or not replacing these can be reasonably priced and fairly painless. An experienced carpenter should be your first phone call.

Tired Kitchen Cabinets
If the cabinets are logically placed and solid wood, PAINT! It solves a world of woes. A few of my favorite cabinet colors (all Benjamin Moore): Dove White, Nimbus, Smoke Embers and Ambler's Slate

Tight Staircase

If the staircase is wedged between two walls (you often see this in Cape Cods),often, at least one of the walls can be removed and a banister added. An easy way to create a little breathing space.

Compartmentalized Rooms
Open it up! As long as you are not dealing with supporting walls, this is a fairly straight forward project. Wall removal often improves flow, lets in light and makes a space more dramatic - breathing new life into a home.

Ugly Brick Fireplace
 PAINT and little carpentry can solve a whole host of problems
    

Scary Front Door
If the door is flat and solid wood - cut out the center and replace with double-pane glass

   

    

Paint Colors
While it seems obvious that homes can be repainted, I am often surprised by how many people turn down a larger home in a better location just because they don't like the paint choices. In fact, some buyers won't even look at a home that has an exterior color they do not like. Paint is EASY, do NOT let it stop you from considering a house!!

Buying a home that needs work may be the best investment you ever make!