When Is The Right Time to Update Your Home?

When is the right time to update your home? The answer to that question is the same as if you asked “when is the right time to have a baby.”  If you wait until you have enough money to do all the things you would like, you could be waiting a long time.

Families usually want to update their home for several reasons, one being they are just tired of looking at the same old decor that has been there for years. Two, company is coming and you want everything to look its best. Three, you are thinking about putting your house on the market.

The best time to update your home is to start now and continue as long as you own your home. You will have all the pleasure of coming home in the evening to an environment that you love. You don’t have to panic when your best friends from college call to say they are coming for a visit. And last, one day your home will go on the market to sell. Whether you sell it to downsize in your senior years or left to your heirs, it will be sold. So why not start now!

Of course major remodel projects such as kitchen remodeling or adding wood floors do take more planning of time and money. However, think about small projects that will not cost a lot of money, but will make a big difference. Paint is one of the most economical and rewarding things you can do. If in fact you are thinking of selling soon, make sure you use a neutral color.  A light taupe color will go with almost all color schemes. Here are just a few more ideas:

•           update old light fixtures

•           install a dimmer switch in dining areas

•           replace electrical switch plates with rocker style

•           replace worn cabinet hardware in kitchen and baths

•           update kitchen and bath faucets

•           install low-flow, comfort height toilets

•           add crown molding

•           paint front door and replace old hardware.

Make a plan of what you would like to do first and get started.  For those of us who are blessed to be homeowners, value your investment and treat it as a prized possession.

Becky Bywater is owner of Affordable Decorating and Staging.  She is an Accredited Staging Professional specializing in home staging.  Website: www.affordabledecorating-staging.com. Contact info: 863 838-1079, bbywater@tampabay.rr.com.