Column by Cathy Patrick
Like an episode of HGTV, many homeowners are deciding to love or list their homes this season. According to Jim Schlueter of Encore Sotheby’s Realty, this is an ideal time to sell.
“The central Indiana housing market is seeing multiple offer situations. Houses are selling at or above list price,’ Schlueter said.
According to Schlueter, three of the top priorities for homebuyers right now are in-home amenities, private outdoor spaces and move-in ready conditions with no renovations needed.
Before you tackle a project, consider your current needs and look toward the future.
How long do you plan to live in your home? If you plan to remain in your home for a few years, a new design will improve the quality of your daily life. You’ll reap the rewards of the investment when your home is eventually placed on the market.
If you plan to sell as soon as possible, consult your realtor before making changes. Your realtor will develop a strategic plan based on your individual circumstances.
And if you wish to stay in a home where the love has faded, here are a few design tips to bring the excitement back.
Purge. I can’t emphasize this enough. Nothing weighs a house down like the items you regret buying or feel obligated to keep. Most clutter is the result of delayed decisions. Make those tough decisions now so that you can enjoy your home to the fullest potential.
Consider rearranging and repurposing furniture. A designer’s secret for objectively assessing a space is to take a photograph of the room. If an item does not work, simply let it go. If you’re still having trouble, clear the space as much as possible. Allow yourself to reimagine the functionality. It might make sense to change the room entirely.
An additional tip: Consignment stores are overflowing with office furniture. Retailers have added desks and accessories to their inventory. It’s an ideal time to transform any room into a modern workspace.
