Spring and summer are seasons when both home buyers and sellers are most active across the country. If you’ll be putting your home on the market this year, simple, cost-effective upgrades can help ensure a speedy sale at a good price.

“In the world of real estate, it’s often necessary for sellers to spend a little on upgrades in order to achieve a satisfying home sale,” said Bethany Richmond, communications director for the Carpet & Rug Institute. Here are some easy-to-do upgrades that are both cost-effective and high-impact:

Replace carpet

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It’s easy to see the impact of worn or dated carpeting. “If you don’t like looking at it, buyers won’t either,” Richmond said. “Replacing old or damaged carpet delivers impressive appeal for a modest investment.”

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Clean flooring

If your carpet is still in great shape, then simply having it professionally cleaned can make it look even better. A deep cleaning helps lift tough soils and provides a clean, fresh look.

Repaint in neutral shades

Fresh paint is another smart and cost-effective upgrade for sellers. Repainting in neutral colors makes a room look fresher and brighter, and gives buyers a visual “blank slate” against which to imagine their own decor.

Update or upgrade lighting

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You may find that disco-ball style globe light charming in your kitchen, but the average buyer doesn’t want dated or unusual lighting. Replacing dated or worn fixtures, especially in bathrooms and kitchens, is a cost-effective way to give a room a more up-to-date, contemporary look.

Replace hardware throughout the home

These seemingly small items have a major impact on the overall visual effect of a home. In desirable rooms such as kitchens and baths, designer hardware can elevate the entire look of the room. And upgraded door hardware will ensure buyers have a positive first impression.

This article is courtesy of Brandpoint.

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