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Tuesday, August 1, 2000
Paint, carpet, landscaping help sell your house
Cost of big-ticket items, such as a pool or a deck, aren't usually recovered
A swimming pool is a welcome respite from the heat, but don't expect it to make a splash in the sales price.
Local real estate agents say it's the little things that count when sprucing up a house for resale. Investing in the appearance of a home, such as a coat of paint or new carpeting will pay for itself in a higher price for a home.
"That first impression when you come through that door makes all the difference in the world," said George Valentine, broker at Real Estate Today.
Real estate agents say many home improvements rarely translate into cash at the closing table. The most indelible mark that a home seller can make on a buyer is that first impression. And that impression is significant in deciding whether or not to buy.
Paula Alcala, owner and broker at Ponderosa and Associates Realtors, said that she's had many potential buyers who were interested in a house change their mind when they drove by the location just because the outside appearance was a disaster. A little landscaping would have gone a long way.
"It tells about the house," she said. "If it's been taken care from the outside, I know it's been taken care of from the inside."
Here are other items that buyers are willing to pay for in their homes:
A few years ago, homebuyers were looking for a three-bedroom house. Now they are looking for a four-bedroom house - room enough for a home office, said one agent.
On the Island, decks are a desired feature for taking in the ocean view.
Ceiling fans to enhance the air flow in the house
More than one air-conditioning control system
Kitchens with more space and modern appliances
Another bathroom
Insulation that can cut down on electricity bills
Interior surfaces that are easy to clean and maintain
Tile floors that are cooler, allergy friendly and give the house a clean look
Dishwasher - the potential homebuyer may or may not use it, but they do like to have the option
A foundation that is in good shape
One of the more unexpected cravings of potential buyers in South Texas is a fireplace, Alcala said. While they might not use them other than a convenient place to put a plant, the lack of a fireplace can have a chilling effect on how a homeowner cozies up to a house. Alcala explains that buyers place a premium on fireplaces because they associate the design with a recently built house and they feel as if something is missing from a house without one.
As for the swimming pool, it will get the attention of the buyer to make the sale, but only a fraction of the cost will be recouped.
"If you add a swimming pool or a deck, you never get your money back," said Max Pooley, a real estate agent with Century 21 Myers Real Estate. "They will help you sell the house, but they won't give you full credit."
Business writer Andrea Jares can be reached at 886-3678 or by e-mail at jaresa@caller.com
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