Updating homes whether selling or staying put

Whether you are thinking about selling your home or planning to stay put a few more years, some simple updates with an eye on detail can make a big impact both visually and financially.

As a seller, you want to get the most money for your home as quickly as possible. You only get one chance to make a first impression, so be sure it’s a good one both inside and out. For those staying put, small changes can be the difference between a home you like and one you love.

Designing with doors

Some of the details homeowners should pay attention to include repainting a room, adding a chair rail and updating door and cabinet hardware. Another commonly overlooked and cost-effective way to spruce up a home is to install new interior doors.

Unlike standard, plain flush doors, raised- and flat-panel molded interior doors add charm, style and personality to any home. They come in many styles, finishes and sizes.

“Interior doors play an important role in home decor,” says Bob Merrill, president and CEO for Chicago-based CMI. “With advanced molded door technology, we can make doors with a range of panel configurations from clean, straight lines for contemporary styles to arched or curved tops for more elegant tastes. And, the finish can be flat and smooth, textured wood grain. They are engineered o resist swelling, shrinking, cracking and splitting, which is an inexpensive way to add value to your home.”

Beyond their functional role, doors also convey an initial impression of your home. The average home usually has around 20 interior doors. You also can replace standard, hollow doors with solid core doors to add weight and help keep noises in – or out.

Sprucing up exterior trim

Your home’s curb appeal is important, whether you are putting out the “For Sale” sign or intend to retire in a neighborhood you love. A house that is nicely landscaped and has a welcoming driveway is always appealing. However, replacing any damaged or outdated exterior trim with new freshly painted trim is a great way to quickly spruce up your home from the outside.

Take a close look at your home’s exterior trim. There is a good chance parts may be warped, split or cracked, particularly around windows and doors, at the corners and along the roofline. Termite damage is also a problem in many parts of the country.

“In today’s tough economy, many homeowners are trying to add both value and personal style to their homes,” says Merrill.

Whatever plans you have for your home, now is a good time to think about installing new interior doors or replacing exterior trim. You’ll enjoy your house more and help add performance and value as well.

Photo courtesy of ARA