I’ve worked with many buyers who hurry to add the latest technology, refinish old floors or finally paint their living room right before they sell their house. I’m often the one recommending these changes, but I hear over and over that homeowners wish they had invested in these types of upgrades in time to enjoy them for themselves! There’s nothing like prepping your home to sell for motivation, but if you’ve been putting off a project, I’m here to encourage you to make the change in time to enjoy it yourself.
I put together a few of my favorite upgrades, and they’re honestly not too expensive or difficult to implement, you just need a little time and, maybe, some elbow grease. I’d love to hear from you what sorts of upgrades are on your mind!
One of my favorite suggestions is upgrading to energy efficient smart devices. This may seem like just a modern convenience, but you can actually reduce your energy consumption and bring down your utility costs, not to mention the latest technology will look good to potential buyers. A few to consider are smart thermostats that you can control from your phone and program around your schedule, smart light bulbs that take up less energy and you can even invest in an energy monitoring system. These all pack a double-punch of making your life easier and being better for the environment.
Painting is a relatively easy way to really upgrade a room or floor of your home. If you’re planning on selling in the near future, I recommend neutral colors, so buyers can picture themselves in your space. But if you’re thinking of staying, paint the walls the color you’ve been dreaming of – even just an accent wall can drastically change a space!
With Minnesota winter already upon us, it’s time to think cozy thoughts – fireplaces, heated floors or even just getting your vents cleaned out can all add to the ultimate hygge experience. If you don’t have a natural fireplace, you can purchase relatively inexpensive space heaters that look like a gas fireplace and the luxury of heated bathroom floors will make your feet happy for years to come. A more practical project would be getting your vents cleaned and your filters replaced just in time to spend lots more time indoors.
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS FOR ELEVATING YOUR HOME
How can adding color to furniture enhance your home’s appearance?
Adding color to your furniture can completely revitalize your home’s appearance, creating a more vibrant and personalized living environment. When you choose to update your furniture with color, you’re not just introducing new hues; you’re crafting an atmosphere that reflects your unique style.
- Personalization and Expression
Painting furniture allows for a high degree of personalization. Whether you opt for a bold red bookcase or a calming blue coffee table, these color choices can infuse your home with your personality and flair. This customization can turn ordinary spaces into a reflection of who you are, offering a sense of identity and belonging.
- Enhancing Room Dynamics
Colorful furniture pieces can also serve to enhance or alter the dynamics of a room. For instance, a bright, eye-catching chair can act as a focal point, drawing attention and anchoring the space. On the other hand, softer shades on furniture can create a serene and relaxing atmosphere, perfect for areas where you unwind.
- Complementing Existing Decor
Integrating colorful furniture helps you tie together various elements of your decor. By carefully selecting shades, you can create a cohesive theme throughout your space. A few strategically placed vibrant pieces can complement your existing color scheme, bringing balance and harmony to your home.
- Reviving Old Pieces
Revamping outdated or worn furniture with a fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into your home without the need for costly replacements. This sustainable approach not only saves money but also reduces waste, making it a stylish and environmentally friendly choice.
Incorporating color into your furniture is a simple yet impactful way to uplift your home’s appearance. Whether it’s through subtle touches or bold statements, color has the power to transform your space into an inviting and lively haven.
How can framed art be used to improve home decor?
Framed art is a powerful tool for enhancing home decor, infusing personality and style into any space. Gone are the days of plain, unadorned walls. With framed art, you can create an inviting and visually interesting atmosphere throughout your home.
THE IMPACT OF FRAMED ART
- Injects Character: Framed art allows you to express your individuality. Whether it’s a vibrant abstract piece or a serene landscape, art can say a lot about who you are.
- Adds Color and Texture: Use artwork to introduce pops of color and unique textures to your decor. This is especially useful in rentals where painting isn’t an option.
TIPS FOR SELECTING AND ARRANGING ART
- Mix and Match: Don’t stick to uniformity. Different colors and sizes of frames add depth and intrigue to your walls.
- Create a Gallery Wall: Combine photos, paintings, and even postcards collected from travels to craft a personalized gallery wall. This not only tells a story but also provides a dynamic visual element.
- Consider the Theme: Align your art with the room’s overall theme or color palette. This ensures a cohesive look that enhances the room rather than clashing with it.
MAXIMIZING THE EFFECT
- Experiment with Layouts: Try various arrangements before committing. Lay out your pieces on the floor to visualize how they’ll look together on the wall.
- Use Art as a Focal Point: Larger pieces can serve as a focal point above furniture, drawing the eye and anchoring the space.
By thoughtfully integrating framed art, you can significantly elevate your home decor, turning even the most mundane spaces into artful expressions of your personality.
How can plants enhance the atmosphere of a home?
Incorporating plants into your home decor is one of the simplest and most effective ways to transform your living space. Here’s how these green companions can enhance your home’s atmosphere:
A BOOST FOR YOUR MOOD AND DECOR
Plants naturally uplift the mood of any room. Their vibrant greens and varied leaf shapes add a touch of artistry to your space, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both you and your guests. Imagine stepping into a room adorned with lush foliage; it feels alive and inviting.
EASY-GOING COMPANIONS FOR ANY SPACE
For those worried about plant care, fear not! There are plenty of low-maintenance options perfect for new plant enthusiasts:
- Golden Pothos: This hardy plant forgives a sporadic watering schedule and flourishes in low-light conditions. It’s known for its rapid growth, adding fresh greenery to your home in no time.
- Snake Plant: With its modern, upright leaves, the snake plant thrives on neglect. It only requires watering when the soil is completely dry, making it ideal for busy lifestyles.
- Monstera: Known for its unique leaf patterns, the monstera grows well in both low-light and bright, indirect light environments, adding a tropical vibe wherever it resides.
IMPROVING AIR QUALITY
Beyond just looks, houseplants contribute to cleaner air. They absorb toxins and release oxygen, promoting a healthier indoor environment. This not only improves your physical well-being but also adds a sense of calm and relaxation.
A CONVERSATION STARTER
Bringing plants into your decor isn’t just about aesthetics and comfort; it’s also about personal achievement. Successfully maintaining thriving plants can be a delightful conversation starter. Guests may be impressed by your flourishing greenery and eager to hear tips on care and selection.
Adding plants to your home is more than a design choice—it’s a lifestyle enhancement that brings joy, tranquility, and a little bit of nature indoors. So why not introduce a few green companions today? You might find your home feels fresher, more vibrant, and more welcoming.
Some of these suggestions are practical and some add significant luxury to your home, but all will help you enjoy the time you spend in your home, and will likely boost your property value too. My advice? Plan a project now before more snow flies!
WORK WITH JOSE
I’m here to help. Reach out to me and let’s start a conversation. Your real estate journey is important to me, and I’m committed to providing you with the guidance and support you need. Let’s connect today and take the first step towards achieving your real estate goals.
