JUDY'S HOUSECALLS

ASK THE EXPERT

Q. We're thinking of putting our house on the market. How far should we go to spruce it up?

A. Glad you asked. There are things you can do that don't cost a lot of money and will make your home more attractive. Here are some basics that require a little muscle but not a lot of cash:

Check your curb appeal. Prospects first drive by a home. Next, when visiting, they gauge the home on its entry. So, cut the lawn, trim the bushes, and plant some flowers. Or at least have a pot or two of flowers and greenery by the door. Paint the door if it needs it and buy new door handles if yours are old.

The inside of your home should be cleared of unnecessary furniture and clutter even if you have to rent a storage building to hold the extras. Your home will look and feel more spacious.

The same is true of closets. Stuffed closets and stacked closet shelves are a turnoff. They could make a buyer think the rest of the house is not well-maintained. Or they might think the closets won't be big enough for them either.

Buyers want light. Take down the drapes and wash the windows. Don't block the light with furniture, and cut back any bushes that block the sun. If any room needs to be refreshed with paint, use a neutral color. New light fixtures and faucets could be in order, and a fancy shower head adds class.

It's no longer necessary to spend a great deal of money remodeling the kitchen. Though prospects like stainless steel appliances, they may not return as great a percentage of your investment as they used to. Buyers today are looking more for value in the home and think they can update the decor later.

Now is the time to think about pricing. Though home prices are gradually rising, they aren't what they were a few years ago. On the other hand, when you buy a replacement home, it will be priced lower that it would have been two years ago. It evens out, or you could even end up thousands of dollars to the better.

I will be pleased to help you get the best possible deal on both transactions. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to call! Have a blessed day!