How can older homes compete with newer construction

It seems like everyone wants to live "close in" today. We all know everyone is tired of the commutes on the Eastside. So the older homes that attract the most buyers and sell for the most money are the homes that have been updated. These homes keep the best features of the existing home, but incorporate some of the attractive features of newer homes.


Want some creative ideas for remodeling that older home? Everyone knows kitchens and baths are the "no-brainer" remodels that will earn home owners the most bang for their buck, but in this article a few more great ideas were presented. Here are some suggestions from the article you can link to below:

Raise the roof! What a great idea. When I show buyers homes I constantly hear about the desire for an open floor plan with high ceilings. This is one of the major attractions of newer homes and is a great way for older homes to compete in the marketplace.

Tear down walls- another great way to create openess. Older homes often have small rooms. Why not open the kitchen to the dining room or family room?

Paint the interior with fabulous colors. No longer is beige, beige, beige in demand. People love personality and color. Go for it and show your style.

Add a bath or hardwood floors. Again, great features that excite buyers.

Check out new construction for what is popular and then adapt the features to your own remodel.


I have seen some really cool midentry and rambler homes built in the 60's and 70's that had open floor plans. These open living areas were created by knocking down walls. When these homes have been on the market, they have attracted top dollar for the sellers. The older homes with the open floor plans, plus the remodeled kitchens and baths, are the most in demand.


http://www.brokeragentnews.com/news/residential/2007_3/3_20_2007_yw_1174443301.html


Call me if you have questions about remodeling and I would be happy to tell you what is selling in today's market.