Ask Mr. Fix it

Hiring a Chicago construction contractor to help to increase the value of your home can be a wise investment in this turbulent market. It may simply be an improvement in one room like the kitchen or bathroom or maybe an addition to bring the house up to par with other nearby houses.

Many times when the home is listed there is a particular feature that will appeal to new buyers. This is often a newly renovated kitchen or bathroom as these both are strong selling points for many buyers. Also their other cosmetic things you can do if you already have these two rooms in order.

Grab a pen and paper and take a tour of your home. Some might be thinking “why, I know my home like the back of my hand.”

Do you?

When was the last time you really took a good look at your home? Like anything in life, wear and tear will eventually happen; it happens to our cars, it happens to any of the appliances we use, heck, it even happens to us. Yes, just like our bodies which may be due for a cosmetic enhancement sometime in the future, so does the home require a cosmetic touch up every now and again.

What Chicago home improvement areas are we talking about? Let’s take a look at just a few:

- The windows are one of the first impressions to buyers. Are your windows in need of repair or replacement? Possibly some paint is all that’s required. Double pane windows are huge for enhancing value. Security shutters are another value-added feature.

- The house may simply need a new paint job. Most homes do after a certain period and if you have been in your home for more than ten years without having considered the condition of the current paint work then think about it. It can make the whole difference. Times change and so do color preferences and it could well be your home is out-of-date with the current color trends.

- How about new floor coverings? Your carpet may be faded and needs replacing or your floor tiling is old and tired looking.

- Check your light sockets. Yes, light sockets! How many do you have? Chances are, there are not enough in the house.

- Clean up the clutter around your home both inside and outside. It’s unsightly and presents an unfavorable image to the buyer.

- Check your taps and faucets. Are they leaking? Get them fixed and in good operating order.

- How about the roof of your home. It’s another first impression spot and if it’s looking worn and tired then pay it some attention.

These are just some Chicago remodeling suggestions you can take on board and while some may be minor it’s amazing what a difference they can make. If you make any major changes then it will pay to check with your neighborhood regulations to see what standards need to be followed.

Selling a home is all about initial impressions. If people don’t like what they see initially then they won’t come back. If they do like something initially then they’ll be back for another look. And you’re still in the game!

Tags: house additions, home fix-up, remodeling, landscaping, electrical