PRE-SALE PROJECTS

PRE-SALE PROJECT

Increase the home’s value

By Connie Sutton

When the temperatures first drop in the Four Corners, there’s nothing better than settling next to a fire with a cup of hot cocoa. But as the fall season wanes into winter, cabin fever can set in. For those planning on putting their home on the market this spring, chilly days can also be opportunities to dust off the tool belt.

When we think of increasing resale value, large projects come to mind, but there are plenty of smaller tasks that can pay off big too. As an added bonus, builders and contractors tend to have lighter workloads in the winter months and materials are cheapest from October to May.

Both factors could lead to bigger savings and faster turnaround times. Here we have five projects that take advantage of winter savings while increasing your home’s value. And, all of them can be completed without propping open doors or freezing fingers. Replace bathroom faucets and fixtures

average cost: $70 -$250 per faucet or fixture

A major remodel isn’t necessary to add value to a bathroom. Upgrading faucets and fixtures can instantly update the appearance and provide a high-end feel. Normally, plumbing projects are not DIY. But for the most part, faucets and showerheads are simple to install or replace. Make sure to shut off the water valve before starting this job. If you aren’t comfortable with the replacement, a professional plumber or regular handyman can have it done for you in no time. Spruce up the paint job

average cost: $75 - $1000 per room

Few things make a room feel bright and new faster than a fresh coat of paint. To get the most return on your investment for this project, opt for lighter neutral colors. To DIY the job you’ll need tarps, tape, rollers, brushes and a ladder. Alternatively, you can hire a professional painter for high-quality results in half the time. The price for the project will vary depending on the size of the room and whether or not you choose to DIY. Add crown molding

average cost: $120 - $260 per room

Crown molding adds some major style points to a home without any heavy materials to haul through the ice and snow. This is a simple but effective project. Installation can be completed in a single weekend. Though if you have to hire a contractor the labor price will usually be higher than the materials. If you plan on installing the crown molding, all you need is a few basic tools, including a miter saw, drop cloth, paint, nail gun and a ladder. To achieve maximum resale value, install crown molding where it will make the largest impact, such as the living room or master bedroom.

Reglaze the bathtub

average cost: $200 - $650

The cost of a complete bathroom renovation can quickly add up. If a complete remodel isn’t in the budget, consider simply reglazing your tub. It’s a great way to make the bathroom look new. You can buy a bathtub reglazing kit at your local hardware store and simply follow the instructions. The whole project will take between two and four hours. It will not only improve the overall appearance of the bathroom, it will also protect the integrity of the tub. If DIY is not your style, local painters and contractors can handle this project for you. Add a kitchen backsplash

average cost: $500 - $1000

One of the more affordable kitchen projects is adding a colorful backsplash behind your stove. This home improvement idea will add some personality to your kitchen’s look that can emphasize your countertops, cabinets and appliances. The cost of adding a backsplash will depend on the size of the area as well as the materials you use and whether or not you DIY. The skill level needed to complete this project ranges from medium to advanced, but there are several local professionals that can help with installation if needed.