If you’re thinking about remodeling your Beacon Hill condo before you list it, take a look at these three tips to help you decide if you really need to fix it up before you sell. The answer may surprise you.
With the fall season upon us, change is in the air. For many families, children are growing up and moving out of their Back Bay condo, maybe leaving for college or taking a jump into the working world. Parents are finding themselves as empty nesters for the first time. The question inevitably arises: is it finally time to downsize my Boston downtown condo?
If you’re pondering that thought, you may also be wondering if you should fix-up your Boston North End condo before you sell it, or go straight to the market as-is, allowing a potential buyer to do the updates and remodeling. If you’re one of the many homeowners this camp, here are a few tips to help you decide which way to go.
1. Analyze Your Market
A Boston real estate broker can help you to understand your market and the potential level of buyer interest and demand for your Beacon Hill home. Are you in a seller’s market or a buyer’s market? This can change based on the price range of your home, too. A professional can also give you some insight on what you can change or remodel, and how to declutter your Midtown condo to make it attractive to buyers in your area.
2. Get an Inspector
Right now, the average length of time a Boston real estate owner stays in a home is between 7-10 years. That’s a little longer than the historical average, so if you’ve been living in your Beacon Hill condo for a while, it might be time to make some significant improvements. Think: electrical system, HVAC units, roof, siding, etc. An inspector can give you a better idea of the condition of your home, if it is up to current code standards, and recommendations on how to have your house ready before you put it on the market.
3. Decide If You Need to Remodel
You may also be thinking about creating buyer appeal with something like a kitchen or a bathroom remodel. If so, first dig into the market value of your Midtown condo, and compare it to the actual cost of the remodel. A local Boston real estate professional can help you determine your home’s market value, and you’ll want to get a few quotes from contractors on the potential remodel pricing as well. Once you have those two factors narrowed down, you can to decide if a remodel will give you a return on your investment when you sell. Oftentimes, it is actually more advantageous to price your Boston condo to sell, list it competitively, and then let the buyer pick the colors they want for their bathroom tiles and the type of countertop they prefer. The 2019 Cost vs. Value Report in Remodeling Magazine compares the average cost for remodeling projects with the value those projects typically retain at resale.
Bottom Line
Boston real estate for sale inventory is low, meaning there is less than the 6-month housing supply needed for a normal market. This drives buyer demand, creating a perfect time to sell. If you’re considering selling your house, let’s get together to help you confidently determine what will be the best choice for you and your family.
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