Your home’s flooring is an important factor in buyer’s minds. Floors that are old, dingy scratched or frayed will leave a negative impression on buyers. While you might be able to look past your old and worn flooring, your prospective buyers are seeing dollar signs as they think of the added expense it will be to redo the floors.
While flooring is often a big renovation that not all sellers can undertake, there are things you can do to stage your floors for a sale. Here are our top suggestions.
If your floors are wood or laminate
For wood or laminate that is scratched and unsightly, you can repair light and deep scratches with a repair kit found at most home improvement stores. Once the area is fixed, and if it’s a high traffic area, consider using an area rug or throw rug to protect the flooring.
If your floors are tile
Before you mop that dingy tile and grout, realize that dirty mop water can actually make your tile and grout appear dirtier than it is. Instead, steam clean the tile. If it’s just the grout that needs a facelift, make a paste of ¾ cup baking soda, ¼ cup hydrogen peroxide, and 1 tablespoon dish soap to clean the grout. Of course, test the mixture in a hidden area first to make sure there’s no negative reaction on your tile.
If your floors are carpeted
If replacing the carpet isn’t an option, get them professionally steam cleaned. Opt for upgraded services like deodorizing and sanitizing the carpets too. This will help remove any odors and pet stains. Also, look under the existing carpeting. If your home is older, you may have original hardwood flooring underneath. Should you discover this gem, then opt to rip up the carpet and then refinish the original hardwoord rather than clean the carpets.
As you declutter and stage your home for sale, pay attention to your flooring too. Take the steps to spruce them up so they complement your décor rather than detract from it. When you do, buyers will be better able to picture themselves in their new home.
Are you ready to sell your home? Or is it time to buy a new home? We can help. Check out our Facebook page for many more real estate tips and information. Have a question you need answered right now? Contact us today!