Real estate mogul Barbara Corcoran stresses that first impressions matter intensely when selling a home. Buyers form an opinion within the first 30 seconds of entering – and sellers need to capitalize on that fleeting moment. To accelerate a sale, Corcoran advises focusing investment on three key areas: the home exterior, the living room, and the kitchen.
Curb Appeal: The First Impression
The front of your house is the first thing potential buyers see. According to Corcoran and industry experts like Josh Stech (CEO of Sundae), neglecting this area is a costly mistake. Simple upgrades yield high returns : repaint the front door, mow the lawn, trim bushes, and power wash driveways and sidewalks. Buyers remember glaring flaws, especially at the entrance, and a well-maintained exterior signals overall care.
The Living Room: Setting the Scale
Buyers subconsciously gauge the entire home’s size based on the living room. A spacious feel is crucial. If a full remodel isn’t possible, Corcoran suggests quick fixes like larger rugs (buyers perceive rooms as bigger with larger floor coverings) and fresh slipcovers on furniture. Lighting is also key : outdated fixtures make a home feel dated. Upgrading lights is an affordable way to modernize the space and improve its presentation.
The Kitchen: A Critical Evaluation Point
The kitchen is the focal point for many buyers, and small details can make a big difference. Corcoran advises resurfacing cabinets and repainting walls. Opendoor’s 2024 Home Decor Report highlights the demand for visually appealing surfaces like handmade-looking tiles, mixed metals, and warm woods. However, the single most impactful upgrade? A new refrigerator. Buyers instinctively open the fridge, and a modern appliance implies the rest of the kitchen is well-maintained.
Investing in these areas isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about signaling to buyers that the home is well-cared for and worth a serious offer. By focusing on these high-impact areas, sellers can significantly increase their chances of a fast and profitable sale.
