Here are some Home Upgrades Buyers Want in the COVID-19 Era
If you imagined 2020 was the year you would finally list your house for sale, you may have hit the brakes on those plans when the coronavirus pandemic arrived.
But now, over a year later—with vaccines rolling out and cities beginning to reopen—the real estate market is again heating up with buyers eager to upgrade to a new home. So stop putting it off: Now is the time to step on the gas in preparing your home to sell. We talked with experts to learn which home improvements will hit the right note with buyers beyond the pandemic.
1. Upgrade your outdoor space: Most of us are suffering from an acute case of cabin fever these days. It’s little wonder that outdoor space has become more important than ever to prospective buyers. That doesn’t mean you need to splurge on a new in-ground pool; even a minor landscaping refresh can make a big difference and increase curb appeal. Depending on your budget and your neighborhood, you might also consider adding an in-ground fire pit or outdoor kitchen to maximize your outdoor space. 2. Create a Home Office and/or Classroom: Many workers aren’t heading back to the office until later this year—if at all. That means home office space is at a premium. “Staging a guest bedroom as a home office or classroom is a good idea,” says Walker, who points out that most of us host guests in our guest rooms for less than a month per year. “The potential buyer can see the room being used in a versatile way and visualize it for themselves.” 3. Make Space for a Home Gym: Many people were forbidden from the gym during the pandemic, forced to work up a sweat from home to minimize risks of coronavirus transmission. That means people are looking for space to house gym equipment, from yoga mats to treadmills and stationary bikes. Your home may not have the space for a fully equipped home gym, but you can still carve out a corner workouts. 4. Spruce up your laundry Room: Concerns about cleanliness and hygiene have been at an all-time high during the pandemic, which means “laundry rooms are more important than pre-COVID,” Malina says. People are doing laundry more often after running errands, and many of us have become more diligent about washing our bed linens. Plus, who couldn’t use more room for ironing, folding, and hang-drying clothes?
If you or someone you know is thinking about selling or buying a home, please contact me. I'd be happy to help and answer any questions/concerns you may have!!!
