• Clean, then clean a little more. This is your home’s time to shine, so make sure it sparkles. Remember: people will be looking in cabinets and closets, so make sure these spaces are cleaned and organized, as well.

• Put away personal items. The more “you” that’s in the home, the less buyers will be able to imagine themselves living there. Put personal photos, pet supplies, and collections away. While you’re at it, hide your valuables or remove them from the house. There will be strangers in your home, and while they’ll likely be trustworthy, it isn’t worth the risk of having a valuable item turn up missing.

• Leave the house. Let your real estate agent handle the showing of the house. You want buyers to imagine themselves living there, and they can’t do that with you there. Leave for the day and stay away until the open house is over.

• Take your pets with you. Don’t leave your pets in the house. First, the door will be opened a lot and your pet could get out. Second, if you keep your pet secured in a room with the door closed, buyers won’t be able to view the room, which isn’t ideal. And third, having a bunch of strangers wandering through the home might be stressful for your pet, even if they’re crated. Take your pet with you when you leave or find a pet-sitter to watch them for the day.

• Keep the driveway and street clear. Visitors will need a convenient place to park, so make sure the driveway and street in front of your house is clear of vehicles.

• Invite the neighbors. Let everyone know you’ll be having an open house well in advance. This is helpful in a variety of ways. First, they’ll know to expect extra traffic and cars on that day so it won’t catch them unaware. They’ll be less likely to complain about people milling around the neighborhood. And if you make them aware of your open house, perhaps they won’t choose that day to cut down trees or host a garage sale. If they come to the open house, they can share their knowledge of the neighborhood with potential buyers and make them feel welcome.

• Consider serving snacks and drinks. Most open houses take place on Sundays between 11 am and 4 pm. Chances are good some buyers will arrive hungry. Potential buyers and agents tend to stay longer when food is served. And if it’s a warm summer day, beverages will be welcomed by your guests. Whether you choose sweet, savory, or a mix of both, think strategically about food placement and scents. For example, having snacks in the kitchen will make buyers think about hosting their own parties there. Some drinks and snacks on the back patio will bring to mind backyard barbecues and family get-togethers. If you’re doing the cooking, choose items that will leave a pleasant scent in your house, such as a batch of brownies or fresh-baked bread. Avoid cooking things that might leave a lingering odor in your home, like cauliflower or fish.

• View the open house as your grand reveal. Typically, the open house is held soon after you put your home on the market, so it’s like a debut. You can learn a lot from your open house. This valuable information can help you sell your home faster if you use it to your advantage. Consider setting out comment cards for guests to fill out before they leave. This will provide you with instant feedback about your home and what people are thinking so you can make any necessary changes or adjustments while it’s still early in the process.

sellOpen houses are still a great tool for buyers, sellers, and agents. While they have the potential to be awkward, knowing what to expect and some basic etiquette will help make the event a success for everyone involved.

When preparing to sell a home, making the best choices on what to repair can be difficult. Home sellers tend to forget it’s more important to represent the potential of a house than to pretend it’s perfect. Buyers and sellers will know that normal wear and tear happens in every residence. A good guideline when selling your home is to fix things prospective buyers will notice and appreciate. This can be the difference between a house being seen as a turn-key property or a fixer-upper.   

Prioritizing Repairs: Why You Shouldn’t Fix Everything   

Tackling every repair could be costly and time-consuming for a homeowner. Worse, it isn’t likely to earn your money back. Making some updates can be an expensive mistake because the odds of potential buyers replacing fixtures, window coverings and carpeting are high. Don’t stress over home repairs like these. Instead, focus on strategic maintenance to increase the home’s sale price.  

Get Advice From a Real Estate Agent Before You List   

Reaching out to a local real estate agent is a great first step when considering to list your house. Listing agents regularly monitor home trends and can tell you which fixes are most sought-after in the local market.   

If you’re interested in getting a pre-listing home inspection, your agent can point you toward respected companies. These can reveal which repairs are most needed and let you know if the home is up to current standards. The agent’s suggestions, and the inspection report, will determine the updates that produce the best return on your investment.  

Real estate agents can also prepare a comparative market analysis for you. These reports show how your home compares to nearby, recently sold properties. They also provide a guideline for the best starting price when you’re ready to sell.   

What Should You Fix Before Listing Your Home? 

There are no hard and fast rules about what shouldn’t be fixed when selling a home. Any repair will have pros and cons, and there’s always the chance your hard work might not pay off. It’s helpful to remember that you want your home to show ‘potential over perfection.’ Decluttering, painting and landscaping often do more good than extensive renovations before listing your home. If a repair isn’t necessary to successfully list your home, don’t stress over it.   

It can be tempting to think a significant remodel or exterior coat of paint will help your home sell faster. However, each home’s condition and situation are different. Older or historic homes are practically guaranteed to have creaky floors or a few doors that stick in the summer. Those things can show the potential buyer the charms and challenges of living in such a house.   

Don’t Fix or Replace

• A cracked driveway: As frustrating as it is, even driveways only a few weeks old can develop cracks. They can be overlooked if they aren’t overly large, provided the rest of the exterior is well-maintained. 

• Fixtures: Lighting fixtures, sink faucets and bathtub taps are fine not to change, provided everything is in good condition. These are cosmetic features the buyer can adjust to suit their needs.   

• Grandfathered-in building code issues: Building codes are continually changing. A home built even 20 years ago might not meet current standards. But that doesn’t mean every issue will have to be fixed. If the house was built according to the standards of the day, code violations will be ‘grandfathered in’ and allowed to remain as-is.   

• Major room remodels: Completely remodeling a non-master bathroom, kitchen or basement is unlikely to recoup the money spent. Instead, partial room updates, like painting bathroom cabinets or replacing kitchen counters, can add appeal and be easier on your budget.   

• Smart home technology: As useful and trendy as smart home technology can be, it’s not necessarily something prospective buyers are looking for.   

• Window coverings: Removing window coverings like drapes and blinds allows more light into the home. This gives rooms a larger, fresher look and can let interested parties imagine making the space their own. 

Consider Repairing or Replacing

• Appliances: Replace anything that isn’t in good working order. It’s okay if they look a bit dated. Homebuyers often want to upgrade these to give their new house a personal touch.   

• Cosmetic fixes: It depends on the home’s overall condition, but if you have minor scratches or imperfections it’s all part of normal wear and tear.   

• Energy-efficient updates: Many prospective homebuyers are looking for energy-efficient updates to properties. LED lighting, window seals and insulation upgrades can reduce utility bills by up to 30%, so that’s definitely a selling point to highlight.   

• Fading exterior paint: Your house’s exterior is the first thing a potential buyer sees. Fading paint might not be a deal-breaker, but peeling paint can be. A fresh coat significantly adds to the curb appeal.

• Flooring: If there are holes or loose boards, those should be repaired. However, the potential buyer can decide if scuffed or stained flooring is worth replacing. Hardwood floors are in high demand, and the National Association of Realtors notes that refinishing them can add value to your home. 

• Minor HVAC, plumbing or electrical issues: There’s no reason to complete heavy maintenance if these systems are in good working order. However, leaky faucets, broken light fixtures and problems with heating or cooling can lead potential buyers to question how much other work needs to be done.   

• Overly rusty gutters: While this might seem excessively nitpicky, rusty gutters are an eyesore that can reduce curb appeal. A minimal amount of rust will likely be overlooked as part of the bigger picture. However, heavily rusted gutters are a red flag of more intense maintenance to be done.   

• Windows: Replacing broken panes and ensuring they’re well-sealed is far more important than putting in new windows entirely.  This helps keep the home energy efficient without breaking the bank.   

Gregory Hayes/CoStar

Cosmetic Flaws: Paint, Flooring and Minor Dings   

Everyday living causes wear and tear in a home. Paint colors go in and out of fashion, possibly making a home’s interior look dated. Fortunately, it’s easy to avoid making a poor first impression on a prospective buyer with a simple coat of paint.    

Light and neutral colors get the best reception from potential buyers, making a room seem larger and brighter. That’s not just for the inside of the home, either. Fresh exterior paint can also improve a home’s return on investment and help it sell faster.   

A prospective buyer may or may not replace the flooring, but there’s no harm in touching it up. A quick polish or shampooing helps make the home’s interior feel fresher. The difference may be subtle, but it’s far easier and more cost-efficient than replacing linoleum or carpeting.    

Things like minor dings and nail holes in the walls can be left for the new owners. During showings, the pictures will still be on the wall, so it should be understood that screw and nail holes will be left behind. It’s the same with dings. Living somewhere for more than a few months can cause paint to get small chips or scratches. Unless there are large patches of paint missing or deep gouges, there’s no need to cover superficial damage.  

Outdated Appliances 

The most important part of selling a house with appliances included is making sure those appliances work. If the dishwasher leaks or the refrigerator doesn’t cool properly, it won’t leave a good impression on the potential buyer.   

Neither will having mismatched appliances, especially in the kitchen. Buyers are often concerned with a home’s overall style during a walk-through. So, if the home’s stove is new but the dishwasher is old, the difference can be glaring. 

There’s also the issue of what appliances make a home more attractive to an interested party. The washer and dryer aren’t necessarily expected to be included in the sale, although kitchen appliances are.  

Should You Offer Appliance Credits? 

During the initial negotiations for a property, the seller might offer credits for significant repairs, such as replacing a roof or overhauling the plumbing. Seller credits can also cover things like appliances. Still, many sellers generally find it more economical to replace appliances themselves before closing.  

Minor Electrical and Plumbing Issues 

It’s crucial to know the difference between a minor electrical or plumbing problem and a major one. Minor issues like a dead outlet or light switch aren’t safety issues, so it’s okay to leave those as is. However, dangling light fixtures, bare wires or outdated electrical service panels should be addressed before listing the property with an agent or for sale by owner.  

It’s the same with plumbing issues. If there’s a leaky faucet you can’t get to before listing, disclose it to potential buyers so they can decide how to approach it later. More significant issues, like an unreliable septic system or leaky pipes, can be deal-breakers unless dealt with in advance.  

Unfinished Renovations: Leave Room for the Buyer’s Vision 

As nerve-wracking as it can be to think about selling an unfinished home, it’s not an impossible task. Instead of worrying about leaving a renovation undone, focus on the potential this blank canvas gives to a potential buyer. House flippers and investors may even be more interested in a house where part of the work has already been done.  

Where to Spend Your Money When Selling a House

The saying ‘you have to spend money to make money’ is true in real estate. Even before a home goes up for sale, most sellers know how much they can spend on repairs and upgrades. No matter how large or small that number may be, you’ll have a much higher return on investment with a few specific fixes.  

A return on investment, or ROI, measures the profit from a seller adding value to the property. Some of the highest ROI upgrades include landscaping, painting and replacing countertops and cabinets.  

Focus on High-ROI Updates 

Updating the home’s curb appeal offers some of the highest returns on a seller’s investment. After all, the outside of a house is the first thing a potential buyer will see.  

Putting in new landscaping and refreshing exterior paint makes a big impression. Low-maintenance plants, pops of color from flowers and a tidy driveway show off the home and let prospective buyers imagine themselves there. If those aren’t options, simply making sure the lawn is neat and fresh mulch is in the flower beds is still worthwhile.  

Painting the exterior, interior or both results in a high return on investment. A fresh coat of neutral or light-colored paint makes the house feel more open. If you don’t want to pay a professional to tackle the job, there’s nothing wrong with doing it yourself.  

Partial kitchen remodels are another way to add value to a home. Changing out countertops and refinishing cabinets is more cost-effective than undertaking a complete remodel.  

Remodeling Costs and Realtor Recommendation by Project

2022 Remodeling Impact Report (National Association of Realtors)

Know Your Real Estate Market: Understand Buyer Trends 

Understanding what potential buyers want in your local housing market can be the difference between selling your home in a few weeks or a few months. No two real estate markets are the same, and catering to specific area trends shows you’ve done your research.  

Homes in larger cities might need a bit of smart home technology to be attractive. However, in a rural setting, it’s unlikely to make a difference. It could even deter buyers if the area has unreliable internet.  

If in doubt about what’s in demand for your market, speaking with a real estate agent can tell you more about local trends.   

Address Major Concerns Before Listing Your Home

Having a pre-listing home inspection can reveal the most important fixes to make before putting the home up for sale. These include structural problems, safety issues and any building code violations that weren’t grandfathered in. Major plumbing and electrical troubles should be addressed, too, because these can be deal-breakers for a home sale.  

Strategic Repairs to Get the Most Out of Your Sale 

Before a seller considers hiring a real estate attorney or covering closing costs, they have to list the home for sale. Consulting with a real estate agent can help pinpoint the most strategic repairs for a home, while a pre-listing inspection can help clear up any building code issues.  

Fixing everything in a home might be tempting for a seller who wants top dollar, but it won’t make the buyer’s final decision. Show off your house to its best advantage by increasing the curb appeal, updating the paint and decluttering. This allows potential buyers to see themselves in the house.  

Ultimately, that’s what will make the property someone’s new home. 

FAQs: What Not to Fix Before You Sell 

How can you increase the value of your house before selling it? 

Make strategic repairs and upgrades to give your home the best chance of selling quickly and for the desired amount. Fixes with the highest return on investment include landscaping, painting the home’s interior or exterior and replacing countertops.  

Won’t buyers be turned off by minor cosmetic issues? 

Generally, no. Minor cosmetic issues, like outdated kitchen finishes or appliances, aren’t as important as making sure everything in the home is in good working order.  

Do I need to replace old appliances before selling? 

If appliances are in good condition and work well, there’s no need to replace them. However, if a dishwasher is leaky or the dryer doesn’t heat up properly, installing new equipment will make the property more attractive to prospective buyers.  

#Homeowner#Homerepairs#sandiego#riverside#investment#fix

As you set out to flaunt your home’s best assets, the most vital element might be the lighting tasked with accentuating it all. Think about it: we love parks, shopping centers, and other public areas that have bright, ample lighting. Potential buyers will appreciate the same glow coming from your home.

It’s not as simple as turning on every overhead light. You need to choose the right combination of blubs to brighten up the space. Here are seven staging tips to ensure your property is perfectly lit before a showing. 

1. What Do You Use the Room For? 

As you contemplate where to add lighting within your home, consider each space’s utility first: how much light does a person need to make this area functional? For example, your kitchen probably has overhead lighting built in, but focused task lighting can brighten it further and make cooking simpler and safer.

Consider adding a lighting system underneath your cabinets, should the space need a brighter glow. The same goes for the bathroom, where primping happens. A bright light over or around the mirror can transform a dark, gloomy bathroom into a functional place to get ready.

2. Modernize Light Fixtures 

As potential buyers peruse your home, they’re sure to look at where the light’s coming from and evaluate those fixtures, too. You might think an old fixture isn’t something you have to fix. A new homeowner can swap it out for something that suits their tastes, right? This is true, but it could affect your bottom line if the person buying your home knows they have to update the fixtures. 

So, go ahead and swap out any chandelier or fixture that feels old-fashioned. You should also make sure every bulb works, whether it’s part of a dangling lamp or a simple recessed bulb. Buyers will want to know how the lighting looks in every area they enter. If a bulb is out, this could risk the sale of the home.  

3. Consider Layers 

When it comes to decorating, layering is an art form. You can place rugs atop one another, or pile throw pillows and blankets atop an already patterned sofa for added interest. The same goes for your lighting setup, but don’t rely on overheads alone. Instead, try placing a table or floor lamp, so the level of light is even throughout the space. This is especially important in older homes, which typically do not have the plethora of recessed bulbs and overhead fixtures we see in modern construction. 

4. Make It Energy-Efficient

As you add new lamps and bulbs to your space, be sure that what you’re installing has a high energy-efficiency rating. Today’s buyer wants a home that runs in an eco-friendly and budget-friendly manner. Traditional incandescent bulbs burn out quickly and use much more energy to function than their LED or compound fluorescent lamp (CFL) counterparts.

You can also consider using smart bulbs in your home. Smart bulbs are also energy efficient, but you can change the brightness depending on the time of day and turn them on and off using your smartphone. Yes, these options tend to cost more, but those who tour your property will like knowing they won’t have to pay more to keep the lights on. To learn more about the different kinds of lighting, check out this article about sustainable lighting. 

5. Add the Illusion of Space

No matter how cozy it feels to you, a dark room can feel cramped to those touring your home. On top of that, if you have oversized furniture or too many pieces, the room can feel cramped and small.  

Part of your staging will have to cover moving the oversized furniture, but keep in mind that the dark space will still feel cramped without the right lighting. If the room is small, then you might be wary of losing square footage to a floor lamp or table with a lamp on top of it. In that case, consider installing wall sconces or an overhead fixture. If you need more tips on how to prepare your home before a tour, see this handy check list.

6. Let in Natural Light

Another element beloved by potential buyers everywhere is natural light. Unfortunately, you can’t purchase a lamp or bulb to enhance your property’s natural light. What you can do is ensure as many of the sun’s rays are flooding into the property as possible by throwing back curtains, opening blinds, and removing any other obstructions from the window area. If you know what time your home is at its sunniest, suggest showings to your real estate agent during this time so buyers see the property in all its glory. But if your home lacks natural light, you can repaint the home in neutrals or white to at least create the illusion that the home is brighter.  

7. Incorporate Outdoor Lighting 

Finally, your home’s curb appeal can make or break a sale. If potential buyers drive up after dark and can’t see your property, you have a problem. So, add outdoor lighting to your to-do list. Aside from spotlights on the facade, you might want to light any foliage that deserves attention. The same goes for your backyard; although it’s not technically part of your property’s curb appeal, adding a porch light can really help brighten the yard up. 

Light It Up 

With a few small upgrades to your existing lighting scheme, you will be on your way to a successful staging of your property. The right lamps and fixtures highlight all the wonderful features of the place for the next person who moves in!

Have you ever been out for a Sunday drive, saw an “open house” sign, and decided to pop in for a look, even though you weren’t planning to buy? If so, you aren’t alone. Open houses tend to attract not only potential buyers, but also curious neighbors, those seeking decorating ideas for their own homes, and area real estate agents.

An open house may seem antiquated in the age of virtual tours, but there’s still something about seeing a house in person. You can peek in the closets, get a feel for the neighborhood, and see if the back yard is actually as large as it looks online. By visiting open houses, you can get a feel for the market casually at your own pace, so it’s a great way for new home buyers to get a sense of what they like and don’t like before they reach out to a real estate agent. If you’re a seller, an open house is a great way to create a buzz. The more eyes on your home the better. You never know when a curious neighbor will decide your house would be perfect for them or someone they know.

Despite the benefits of open houses, they can be a little awkward. For buyers, you don’t quite know what you can and can’t do since it’s still someone else’s house. For sellers, it can be difficult having strangers walking through your house, peeking in your closets. Unless attending open houses is how you spend your weekends, you probably haven’t been to enough to know what’s expected and what might be frowned upon.

Open House Etiquette for Home Buyers

While there aren’t any rules for open houses, there are some generally accepted things you should and shouldn’t do. Here are some things home buyers should keep in mind:

• Unless there’s a sign stating otherwise, you don’t have to knock. While it may feel wrong to walk into someone else’s house unannounced, you aren’t supposed to ring the doorbell or knock when going to an open house. Just walk right in. If you don’t see the listing agent right away, you can call out a greeting to get their attention.

• It’s fine to examine house features, but not personal items. Yes, you can look inside the closets. After all, how else will you know if there’s enough space for your sneaker collection? Same goes for the pantry and garage. You want to make sure the spaces are adequate. However, don’t go through dresser drawers or look inside the refrigerator. Remember: people still live there, so try not to invade their privacy.

• Leave food and drink behind. For a lot of people, coffee is essential, especially in the morning. But consider what could happen if someone bumps into you or you trip on the corner of a rug. You don’t want to be sopping up spilled coffee from someone else’s carpet or worse, off their white sofa. Many homeowners will provide finger foods and snacks for guests at the open house. It’s fine to take what’s offered but stay in the area where the food is provided while eating so you aren’t leaving a trail of crumbs through the house.

• Try not to sit on the furniture. Maybe you’re tired after a long morning of open houses, or maybe your significant other is still wandering around and you just want a comfortable place to wait. While it’s tempting to flop down on the sofa, it might not be real! If the house is staged, there’s a good chance the furniture is made from cardboard. Staging furniture looks deceptively real, so if you must sit, test it out first and make sure it’s actually a sofa.

• Don’t use the bathroom. When planning your day of open house visits, be sure to schedule in a stop at a café or other place where you can use the facilities. You don’t want to find yourself in a situation where you need to use the bathroom in someone’s house. If the house has been empty, the water might not even be turned on, and you don’t want to find yourself in that situation. Also, there are other people trying to look at the house, as well, including the bathroom. If you’re in there for any length of time, it could make everyone uncomfortable. If you absolutely must go, make sure you ask first (to avoid the whole “no water” situation).

• Wait your turn. If other people are viewing a room, wait for them to leave before you enter. This allows everyone to see the space unimpeded.

• Leave young kids at home. The house likely isn’t childproofed, which means furniture could tip over or breakables might be within reach of tiny hands. Young children are easily overwhelmed, especially when they’re in a strange place, which could lead to them acting out or running around. This could lead to an unpleasant situation for everyone, including you, so try to find a sitter. If you can’t, bring someone along to help you manage the kids.

• Leave your dog at home, too. Unless it’s a service animal, leave your pet at home when touring open houses. Even though you might want to make sure your dog likes the back yard, an unfamiliar place where strangers are coming and going will likely stress your dog out and make other visitors uncomfortable. Besides, some people are allergic. If you must know if your dog likes the house, wait for a private viewing, get permission from the seller, and only do this with homes you’re seriously considering.

• Be careful what you say. You don’t know who’s listening, so don’t be overly critical of the house as you tour, and don’t criticize the homeowner’s taste in décor or style. On the flip side, don’t gush about how much you adore the house and how it’s perfect for you. If you do, the seller could leverage that information to their advantage when you submit an offer. Stay neutral and save your comments for the ride home.

#sandiego #riverside #california #buyers #etiquette #homebuyer #homes #buyer #pets #open house

Should you love your home despite its annoying little quirks, or should you sell it and find a house that better fits your needs?

Determine How Much Equity You Have in Your Home

First, take emotion out of the equation and look at the facts. Have you lived in the house long enough that you’ve acquired sufficient equity to justify selling? Ideally, you should have lived in your current home for at least three years. While it isn’t required that you have equity to sell your house, you could be required to pay the remaining balance on your mortgage and the closing costs if the price you get for your house doesn’t cover the entire amount. In this situation, you’d end up owing money, which isn’t ideal, especially if you want to buy another house.

To determine the equity you have in your home, take the amount your house is currently worth and subtract the balance of your mortgage. Let’s say your house is worth $300,000, and your mortgage balance is $250,000. That means you have $50,000 in equity. If you’re not sure what your house is worth, look at similar houses in your area that have sold recently. Make sure you’re comparing apples to apples — the houses you look at should be similar in age, square footage, number of bedrooms/bathrooms, and location.

If you’re still not sure how much your home is worth, contact a real estate agent in your area and ask them to review the comps (comparable sales) with you. Agents have access to the MLS (Multiple Listing Service) and can give you the most up-to-date, accurate information available.

Review Your Finances

Not only do you need equity in your home, but you’ll also need cash on hand. You’ll need money for home repairs, staging the house, closing costs, real estate commissions, and buyer concessions. Make sure you can afford to buy a new home, especially if you’re in a seller’s market. Will your mortgage be higher, and if so, will the new amount fit within your budget? Use the Homes.com mortgage calculator to help you determine what you can afford.

Sunrooms blend the perfect combination of outdoor beauty and indoor comfort, whether you’re looking for a bright reading nook, a lively plant room or just a relaxing place to hang out. But adding a sunroom to your home can be daunting, especially when it requires building an addition from the ground up. You’ll have a lot to consider when choosing the right location, style and materials for your sunroom, which can all affect seasonal functionality and cost. From choosing the best windows to decorating and landscaping your space, we’ll help you determine what’s next in your quest for that perfect sunny spot. 

Choosing the Right Sunroom Location: Optimizing Sunlight & Functionality

The decision on where to add a sunroom has a lot to do with keeping plants happy without creating a full-on sauna. But how do you decide on the perfect spot? “The most important thing is your heat gain exposure,” says Debbie Hawkes, who works with her husband as part-owner of Buena Vista Sunrooms, a Southern California company that’s been in business since 1978. Eastern and northern exposure is ideal for most plants and people, bringing early warmth with morning light and tapering off to a cool shade by afternoon. To max out natural light for tropical foliage, choose a southern-facing room. But be prepared to get a little toasty on high UV days. Western-facing rooms are probably the least common, as increased heat from the afternoon rays can reduce energy efficiency. They’re great if you’re a lizard or a succulent, though. When it comes to choosing a location for the addition itself, Hawkes says your only limitation is building off of a bedroom, as this can cause issues by blocking important fire exits. 

How Much Does a Sunroom Addition Cost?

You can expect to pay anywhere between $5,000 and $150,000 when you add a sunroom to your home. The exact amount will vary depending on the size and style of your sunroom, and whether you’re updating your current living space or building a home addition. Sunroom kits are also an option for confident DIYers, but “they’re not always made for homeowners to put together,” Hawkes says. While these kits can significantly reduce the price, repairs for a botched job can cost as much as a complete build. “It takes a smart person to realize what they can’t do,” Hawkes says. The industry standard for building a sunroom addition is around $120 per square foot, but high-end options can stretch to $300 per square foot. Different styles also come with vastly different price tags, so choosing the right match for your home and your wallet is equally as important.

Sunroom Styles: Select the Perfect Match for Your Home’s Architecture

Before you have a design consultation, consider which type of sunroom is best for your lifestyle and your house. “I usually ask our clients, what do you want the room to feel like?” Hawkes says. Do you want the space to be comfortable year-round, regardless of the weather? Or are you hoping to soak up the sun in spring and summer after spending winters in the den? While big windows and enhanced natural light are features of each style, insulation and climate control are not. Thinking about how you plan to use your sunroom can go a long way toward choosing the best option. “Here in Southern California, we suggest going with a solid roof because we deal with a lot of heat, but that’s not the same depending on where you are in the country,” Hawkes says. 

Four-Season Room

Cost to build: $20,000 to $80,000

If you want a room full of natural light that’s just as enjoyable in the heat of summer as the dead of winter, you might be interested in a four-season room. These spaces are often built as a standard room addition and heated and cooled with the rest of the house, making them the most expensive option when it comes to infrastructure, insulation and electrical work. 

Three-Season Room

Cost to build: $8,000 to $50,000

If you’re willing to save some money on insulation and bundle up in winter, a three-season room may be preferable. Blending seamlessly with the rest of the home, this option stays comfortable (if not a little warm) throughout most of the year but lacks protection from cooler temperatures. A three-season room is ideal for mild climates. 

Solarium or Attached Greenhouse

Cost to build: $8,000 to $80,000

Solariums usually feature glass or thick thermoplastic-paned ceilings and walls, offering uninterrupted natural light, perfect for plant care in temperate climates. Some feature waterproof flooring with drainage, humidifiers and even irrigation systems, but few of these garden rooms are equipped to handle freezing temperatures. 

Conservatory 

Cost to build: $30,000 to $150,000

Conservatories are probably the most visually stunning option but can also be one of the most expensive. You’ll feel fully immersed in nature in your all-glass room, but thick panes ensure you’ll be able to enjoy the space well into the winter. However, conservatories require additional maintenance year-round to keep the glass clean and draft-free. They can also include important irrigation and drainage additions.

Screened-In Room

Cost to build: $5,000 to $30,000

Also referred to as a screened-in porch or sun porch, these warm-weather rooms are more open to the elements than most sunrooms. Screens provide a closer connection with nature but also leave the room open to more environmental damage from wind and rain. 

Atrium

Cost to build: $7,000 to $25,000

Atriums diffuse natural light through an all-glass roof, brightening the space without large windows. 

Essential Considerations for Sunroom Additions

After you’ve decided on a style, you can work with your contractor (or your home improvement store rep) to find the most cost-effective materials for your new sunroom. Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning for construction. 

Construction and Permitting

Contractors usually secure the proper permits for construction, although this can appear as a separate line item on your estimate. If you’re going the DIY route, you’ll want to ensure that you secure all the proper permits before you begin. HomeAdvisor estimates between $400 and $1,800 in permitting costs to add a sunroom. Hawkes recommends always checking with your building department for a list of requirements such as setback measurements. You’ll also want to think about site preparation; have any existing concrete slabs checked before construction begins, Hawkes says. 

Sunroom Insulation, Heating and Cooling

Hooking up full electrical, insulation and HVAC systems for a four-season sunroom can be a costly endeavor, sometimes reaching beyond $5,000. You’ll definitely save some money in this category if you opt for a less temperature-controlled style, but if you want lights, basic electrical alone can cost a minimum of $350. By adding ceiling fans, operative skylights, roof shades or windows that open, you can effectively keep a warm sunroom cool in summer, but heating an uninsulated room in winter is more of a challenge. 

Flooring, Roofing, Walls and Materials

Whether professionally built or part of a kit, sunrooms can be made from a range of materials. Vinyl and aluminum are cost-saving options, while wood is often more expensive. But the largest bill usually goes to the windows. Most contractors recommend using double-glazed glass with a low-E value, which offers increased energy efficiency by allowing less heat to pass through. Polycarbonate is a durable glass alternative sometimes used for greenhouses and roofs. It offers an added layer of protection from falling debris. Regardless of material, all windows should be double-sealed with silicone and tempered for building code requirements. 

Sunroom Furniture and Décor

Now, the fun part — decorating. From a comfy couch to a hanging chair or a light wicker patio set, your options are limited only by your imagination. Sticking to a bright neutral palette with a few pops of color can help brighten your sunroom even more, while a dark interior may hold on to more heat in cooler months. Four-season rooms offer the most flexibility, as the insulated space protects wood from warping or fabric from water damage. In less climate-tolerant rooms, consider furniture and décor recommended for outdoor use. 

Landscaping Considerations for Your Sunroom

Like décor, how you landscape your space is entirely up to you, although your contractor may have some ideas. South and west-facing sunrooms are best for heat and sun-tolerant houseplants such as aloe, orchids, African violets and palms, while north and east-facing rooms can accommodate the more delicate foliage on ferns and vining plants like ivy. Tropical plants such as Monstera love the extra humidity of a conservatory or a solarium in summer, but you’ll want to have a backup plan if your sunroom isn’t insulated for winter temperatures. 

Sunroom Maintenance Tips for Year-Round Enjoyment

Keeping your sunroom in optimal condition is the best way to ensure its longevity. Experts recommend annual window and glass panel inspections, as well as seasonal roof cleanings, especially if your sunroom is in a location where it might collect debris from nearby trees. “If it’s outside, it’s going to be affected by the weather. UV rays can disintegrate window sealings over time, and if you have failed window panels or water gets in, those need to be replaced,” Hawkes says. 

Sunroom Additions: A Wise Investment?

So, after all that, is it worth it? Like any home improvement, a sunroom addition can significantly improve the value of your home. HomeAdvisor lists the average return on investment at about 50%, meaning if you spend $50,000 on a new four-season room, your valuation may increase by about $25,000. Adding curb appeal, square footage and tons of natural light are also huge pros. But it’s always important to consider the cons of any project. Between building permits, cost, the time commitment of a renovation and possible setbacks, there is plenty to deter homeowners. Building a sunroom can affect your property taxes, utility costs and even insurance rates. Still, you may be able to get a quote in advance so that you’re prepared for the additional financial responsibility when your sunroom is complete. By forming a connection between your indoor space and the beauty of nature, sunroom additions can be a huge boost to your quality of life. 

#sandiego #sunroom #homedesign #riverside #investment #construction 

Cons of Buying a Detached Home

A single-family home is not the best choice for every buyer. This list of potential cons will help you decide if a townhouse, condominium or duplex might be a better fit for you.

Comparatively Few Amenities

Condominium and townhome developments often have significant amenities. For example, they can have swimming pools, fitness centers and tennis courts. They have been designed with the idea that people will use some or all of these amenities, and that residents in these developments will appreciate these features. Condo and townhome developments typically require you to pay HOA fees for maintenance, but sometimes those dues also cover certain utilities, such as gas, water or trash collection. With a detached home, you generally will not have access to amenities like this unless they are built on your property, and you’ll be responsible for setting up and paying for all of the utilities.

You Are in Charge of Maintenance

If you live in an apartment building or condo, the management company will take care of issues such as exterior repairs, clogged gutters or ponding water. Left unattended, water could accumulate and seep into your roofing system and walls. Fortunately, with regular maintenance, these small issues are caught before they become bigger issues that cost hundreds or thousands of dollars.

However, every maintenance and repair issue on a single-family detached home falls upon the homeowner. If you’re handy you might be able to take on some issues yourself, but larger jobs will require help. You’ll need to maintain your lawn and landscaping, shovel snow and be mindful of potential repairs.

Security and Isolation

While a single-family home offers a greater level of privacy, the trade off is that living in your own freestanding home may make you feel somewhat isolated, especially if you live alone. Condos and townhomes have a community of residents around at all times, but a single-family home in a remote area might make you feel as though you need to take extra steps to keep your house secure. This could include upgrading the locks on the exterior doors, installing exterior lighting with motion sensors, adding a security system or installing a fence.  

Longer Commutes to Work

Single-family homes are typically more common in suburban and rural areas, so you may have a longer commute to work than if you lived in an urban setting. Even outside of downtown areas, you’ll find that many attached home developments are near main highways or strategically built with close access to public transportation. This means that these residents can access those main roads quicker or get to public transit more easily.

Too Much Space

If a homeowner is single, or becomes single due to a divorce or death of a spouse, the space afforded by a detached home may be overwhelming. For some people, all of that extra space may also feel too difficult or time-consuming to take care of.

#homesale #sandiego #riverside #detached home #condo #townhome #duplex 

The main difference between single-family homes and semi-detached houses is that the latter share at least one wall with another home. Townhomes, duplexes and rowhouses are among the most common types of homes that are semi-detached. While single-family homes can have one floor or multiple levels, semi-detached homes often have a smaller footprint and are more likely to have multiple floors to maximize the living space. #sandiegohomes #homes #condos #highrise

Pros of Buying a Detached Home

There are significant differences between detached houses and multi-family homes that share at least one common wall. Here are the main advantages of buying a single-family home.

You Can Enjoy a Nice Yard

While not every single-family home has a yard, most do. Detached homes generally have a front yard and backyard. That greenspace can be an important component of family living, particularly if you have young children or just want your pets to have a place to play. If you have a green thumb you may want a plot of land to grow anything from tomatoes to lilacs. A well-maintained yard can also be a great place for outdoor activities. A real estate agent in your area can help you find a home in your area with the outdoor space that you’re looking for. 

Freedom to Do What the Homeowner Wants

When you buy a single-family detached house, the property is yours. Unless you are subject to an HOA or strict zoning ordinances, you’ll have the freedom to update, renovate and expand the home on your property. You won’t run into issues if you want to build an addition, add a deck or construct a detached garage.

Big Gains in Privacy

Single-family homes generally offer a greater level of privacy than semi-detached homes. Townhomes, rowhouses and duplexes all share walls with neighbors. Meanwhile, condo units can share not only walls, but also floors and ceilings. As a result, you may hear conversations, loud music and other noises from your neighbors. What’s more, there’s a chance that your neighbors can also hear noise that comes from your home.

More Space for Your Family

While the size of detached houses can vary, they are generally larger than other types of homes. Depending on where you live, the homes for sale in your area may also offer the additional space of an attic or basement. You might find those features in a townhome or duplex however, they are less likely to be available if you’re looking at condominiums. If you want room to grow your family or have multiple pets a detached home will typically provide more space to do so and minimized pet/breed restrictions.

• Available amenities: A large condo development or townhome community might include a pool, tennis courts or an exercise facility. 

• Shared ownership: You own your home, but may also be responsible for common areas and shared building structures, such as the roof and foundation. 

• Shared walls: You will share at least one wall with a neighbor in a semi-detached home.

• Similar design: The homes in these developments typically have a common exterior design. It’s also likely that many of the units have similar interior floor plans.

#sandiego #calilove #homes #condominiums #detached homes #buy home

How Are Semi-Detached Homes Different?

The main difference between single-family homes and semi-detached houses is that the latter share at least one wall with another home. Townhomes, duplexes and rowhouses are among the most common types of homes that are semi-detached. While single-family homes can have one floor or multiple levels, semi-detached homes often have a smaller footprint and are more likely to have multiple floors to maximize the living space.