Home Improvement Projects that Pay Off

In a competitive market for sellers, many are turning to home improvement projects. However, some projects are far more likely to increase your home’s value, and can also make your home sell faster.

According to Trulia, five projects are nearly guaranteed to pay off in the long run:

1. Painting – A fresh coat of white paint or a neutral color helps lighten the rooms.

2. Landscaping – Curb appeal always matters. A yard that is clean, charming, and inviting helps.

3. De-cluttering and cleaning – A deep clean and getting rid of knick-knacks makes homes more appealing to prospective buyers.

4. Plumbing repairs – Ensure that all plumbing is in great shape, and take care of any water stains or water damage.

5. Staging – Hiring a professional to stage your home can up the value, or you can do it yourself. It can make a dramatic difference in the price your home sells for. According to Trulia, good staging is both “removing your personal belongings and replacing it with more artwork, decor and cleaner-looking furniture,” as well as “tweaking the home’s paint, wall coverings and even landscaping to show the place in its very best light. “