Should you update your home to sell it?
Preparing your home for sale can be a daunting task, especially when considering the upfront costs of necessary repairs and upgrades. Windermere Real Estate's Windermere Ready program offers a solution by providing financial assistance and expert guidance to help sellers enhance their homes, aiming for quicker sales at higher prices.
What is the Windermere Ready Program?
The Windermere Ready program is designed to assist home sellers in preparing their properties for the market by offering up to $100,000 in financial assistance for home improvements. This initiative covers a range of services, including landscaping, painting, floor repair, carpet replacement, deep cleaning, fixture updates, and cosmetic enhancements. The goal is to create a compelling first impression that resonates with potential buyers.
How Does It Work?
1. Consultation: Dusty and I conduct a walkthrough of your home to identify potential updates and repairs that could increase its market appeal.
2. Personalized Plan: Based on the consultation, a tailored action plan is developed, prioritizing improvements that offer the highest return on investment. We can connect you with trusted local service providers and assist in scheduling the necessary work.
3. Recommendations: We will work with you to determine if the program will help you fullfill your goals. Some sellers my believe they need costly updates that will result in less of a return than the cost of investment. We want to protect our sellers from possibly "overdoing it".
Financial Details
At the time of this post, the program provides a loan of up to $100,000 to do any repairs, updates and preparations needed to attract buyers. No payments are required until the house sells. We can go over all the details at a consultation.
The Impact of Home Improvements on Sale Outcomes
Homes with the right upgrades sell faster and for more money compared to those that are outdated or need work. Here’s why:
1. Increased Buyer Appeal = Faster Sales
- Move-in-ready homes attract more buyers, reducing time on the market.
- Many buyers prefer not to deal with renovations, so they are willing to pay more for a home that’s already updated.
- Fresh paint, modern fixtures, and a well-maintained exterior make a strong first impression.
2. Higher Sale Price & Better ROI
- Homes with kitchen and bathroom updates tend to sell for 10-20% more than comparable outdated homes.
- Homes with great curb appeal often sell for 7-10% more than those without.
- Energy-efficient upgrades (windows, smart thermostats) can increase a home’s value while appealing to cost-conscious buyers.
3. Competitive Edge in the Market
- In a buyer’s market, updated homes stand out and get better offers.
- In a seller’s market, well-upgraded homes can spark bidding wars.
Success Stories
Numerous sellers have benefited from the Windermere Ready program. For instance, a home with outdated bathrooms underwent renovations funded by the program, leading to a relisting at a higher price and an eventual sale $87,500 above the pre-renovation listing. In another case, a 1975 estate sale home received new carpets, paint, decor, and landscaping, resulting in an offer $60,000 over the asking price.
Take Action
The Windermere Ready program offers a strategic advantage for home sellers by providing financial support and expert guidance to enhance property appeal. By investing in targeted improvements and professional cleaning, sellers can potentially achieve faster sales and higher returns, making the home-selling experience more rewarding and less stressful. Reach out for more information.