REMODELING 101

Remodeling 101

Tips for Doing it Right
By Marni McEntee | Styled and Photographed by Shanna Wolf

Sprucing up your home,  even if you’re planning to sell, doesn’t have to be daunting. Experts Shelly Sprinkman, owner of Sprinkman Real Estate, and Jerry Schmidt, sales director of Dream House Dream Kitchens, have these tips.

Don’t wait until you’re ready to sell

Sprinkman and Schmidt agree that it makes the most sense to update your home when you’ll be there awhile to bask in your labors. Plus, putting your home on the market can be stressful. “I would recommend making changes and updates as needed so the process of getting your home on the market is less daunting and you have the ability to enjoy your renovation while still in the home,” Sprinkman says.

Keep up with the Jonses

Schmidt advises homeowners to be mindful of the average home value in your neighborhood when considering your remodel. That way you don’t outpace your neighbors’ home values and find it tougher to sell when the time comes. That being said, Schmidt says, “if you love the house and really want to expand the kitchen, do it!”

Size doesn’t matter

You don’t necessarily need to take down walls to improve the look—and potential value—of your home. “Paint is the most economical upgrade,” Sprinkman says, noting some new paints are suitable not only for walls but for certain tile floors, kitchen cabinets and even plumbing fixtures.

Pad your budget

It’s wise to add a little extra coin to your project purse to allow for unexpected costs, like those expensive counter tops you fall in love with, or the hand-painted backsplash you can’t live without, Schmidt says. “In remodeling, it’s not if you’re going to have [unexpected] items that come up, it’s when and how to deal with it,” he says.

Affordable accents

When you are ready to plant that For Sale sign on your lawn, think about enhancements that don’t eat up your profit margin. “We suggest fresh bedding and towels and other high-end accessories that can really elevate the feel of the space,” Sprinkman says. “Pay attention to the front entry. First impressions do matter.”

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