to match. You could also consolidate all the good parts in one bathroom and replace all the hardware in the other. Here are some inexpensive ways to update the bath and kitchen: • Replace the toilet seat. • Repair the grout in tile backsplashe s, fl oors, and tub surrounds. • Refurbish tired-looking cabinets with fresh paint o r fin ish. • Replace a dated bathroom sink with a pedestal variety or cabinet sink. • Replace any mirrors in the bathroom that have edges that are showing discoloration. • Replace all light bulbs so they deliver the same color light. FLOORING A buyer will downgrade your home’s value if yo ur fl oors are in bad shape. On th e fli p side, if your home’ s fl ooring is well done and in excellent condition, buyers will pay more. Maximizing your pro fi t without compromising your investment dollars is certainly the goal, but if yo ur fl ooring and carpeting aren’t in salable shape, you need to take inventory. Th ere’s no point in spending money unnecessarily if the improvements don’t add sign ifi cant value or help the home sell more quickly, but you do have options that don’t break the budget. Repairs and thorough cleaning of yo ur fl oors are the least expensive way—by and large—to bring them up to salable standards. Take stock of your home’ s fl ooring by moving furniture out of the way and noting condition, scratches, stains, or blemishes. List what needs to be replaced, cleaned, or repaired. Carpets can be steam cleaned to eliminate stains and odors. If the
53
Powered by FlippingBook