In my last post titled "Is Home Staging A Good Investment for Low End Homes?", my focus was a home that was going to be listed for $80,000 including a brand new garage just being built. That price is well below the median price of a home in the Minneapolis Metro area.
So, is home staging a good return on the investment for low end homes?
The last post showed the living room and dining room as well as the selling results. Today I want to show you the difference specifically in the kitchen.
Remember this fact...."KITCHENS SELL HOMES".
That statement isn't qualified by "unless the home is under $200K" or whatever number you set. It applies to ALL homes regardless of price.
So in this tiny low end home in a tough area of Minneapolis, it has a further detriment in that it's front door opens right smack into the kitchen. See the front door on the right? Awkward? Aahhh....yes.
So, what do you need to do? Make the buyer's jaw drop and not have them thinking about the awkwardness.
I met with the investor and here were my suggestions:
1) Modernize - Replace the kitchen cabinet hardware with oil rubbed bronze hardware available at big box stores for 10 for $14.99. Install a ready-made composite wood blind on the window again from a big box store.
2) Create Drama - Find clearanced-out or discontinued Mosaic tile at a tile shop or big box store and install a back splash. Sheets of 12"x12" tile can sometimes be found for a couple bucks.
3) Get Rid of Wasted Space - There is a huge dance floor in the middle of this kitchen which is lacking counter space. My advice, pick up a portable island creating more counter space as well as a modern look. The black and stainless steel island shown below was found at Big Lots for $119,
4) Fun - Add a little fun for very little money by putting a glass pendant light above the sink again found at big box stores for under $20.
THE RESULTS:
Note: no new appliances, no new cabinets.
Do you have a low end investment property, home or listing and think it's not worth putting in a little money or sweat equity? I would think again.
Take a look at the living room and dining room pictures on my Previous Post. This home sold in Four Days.
For professional advice on all price level homes call a Professional Certified Home Stager.
Shar Sitter, owner Rooms With Style Home Staging and Redesign Minneapolis MN.
