Planning to sell your San Diego investment property?
You probably want to attract the highest offers, and a few key upgrades you can make before listing your property will increase its value and help you walk away with a bit more money.
Here are five ways to increase your property value ahead of a lucrative sale.
1. Enhance Your Curb Appeal
When you’re trying to sell a home, it’s all about grabbing attention.
First impressions matter. Your property’s exterior is the first thing potential buyers see, and upgrading it can significantly increase perceived value.
Make upgrades such as these in order to improve your curb appeal and increase your value:
2. Landscaping upgrades
Trim overgrown bushes, add colorful flowers, and consider installing drought-resistant plants, which are particularly desirable in San Diego’s climate. You want your investment property’s landscaping to look attractive, well-maintained, simple, and easy to care for.
- Repaint the front door and exterior
A front door and entry that is modern, attractive, and welcoming will not only provide an invitation to potential buyers but also look incredible in listings. Invest in a fresh coat of paint on the door, which makes the property look well-maintained and inviting. If the property exterior is looking faded or old, paint the entire property.
- Pathway and lighting upgrades
Clean and make walkways clear and accessible. Then, add subtle lighting to enhance safety and aesthetics during evening showings.
Values increase when a home looks attractive and appealing. Starting strong with curb appeal will help you earn more when it’s time to sell.
- Modernize the Kitchen and Bathrooms
The future buyers that you want to attract love updated kitchens and bathrooms, as these are the areas where they’ll spend the most time. Even if you end up selling to another real estate investor, they’re going to be looking for move-in ready rental properties.
While a home that’s in good condition does not need a complete remodel, minor upgrades can go a long way. Some of the key updates to consider include:
- Cabinet refinishing or replacing dated cabinet fixtures for a sleek look.
- New countertops using high-demand materials like quartz or granite.
- Updated faucets and light fixtures for a modern touch.
- Tile backsplashes give the space an easy-to-clean vibe.
For bathrooms, ensure the space feels fresh by re-grouting tiles, replacing old showerheads, and upgrading to water-efficient appliances—especially crucial given San Diego’s emphasis on water conservation.
An article in Remodeling Magazine says that a minor kitchen remodel has one of the highest returns on investment, recouping about 72% of its costs. You’ll like the ROI that comes with updating kitchens and bathrooms.
3. Invest in Energy-Efficient Upgrades
San Diego buyers are growing increasingly eco-conscious, meaning energy efficiency can be a significant selling point when it’s time to sell your investment property. Highlighting sustainability improvements can also make your property stand out in the competitive real estate market. When investors we work with are thinking about selling, we recommend:
- Smart thermostats allow buyers to control their energy usage. The temperature in the property can be set according to the time of day, the day of the week, or even the number of people who are at home. Buyers are looking for homes with these features.
- Solar panels. Solar panels are growing in popularity if your property’s value and neighborhood support it. Energy rebates and discounts are also available when you invest at your home.
- Energy-efficient windows. These can keep utility costs low and improve insulation.
Energy-saving features attract environmentally-conscious buyers and allow you to market the property’s lower utility costs as an ongoing benefit.
4. Smart Home Technology Upgrades
Integrating smart home technology is an excellent way to enhance a property’s appeal and functionality. Features such as programmable thermostats, innovative lighting systems, and home security cameras offer convenience and energy efficiency, making the home more attractive to tech-savvy buyers.
Voice-controlled assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Home can also seamlessly control connected devices, elevating the overall living experience. Installing these updates modernizes the property and can increase its market value by aligning with current buyer trends focused on innovation and sustainability.
Whether you’re planning to sell in a few months or a few years, the demand for technology is only going to grow among homebuyers. Making these upgrades now will mean you’re not rushing to catch up when it’s time to list the property.
5. Provide a Fresh, Clean Property with Neutral Walls and Floors
Sometimes, it’s the simplest things that add the most value. An easy way to transform your space is by painting walls with neutral, modern colors. Light, airy shades like beige, greige (gray-beige), and soft whites make rooms appear brighter and more prominent. You don’t want to paint with any crazy colors because you want to appeal to as many potential buyers as possible. But popcorn ceilings and all-white walls can look institutional and impersonal when buyers walk through your rooms. Let them imagine making your space their own by offering a clean, modern slate upon which they can create.
Some of the best flooring considerations will always include:
- Refinish hardwood floors for a clean, polished look.
- Replace old carpets with laminate or engineered hardwood for a more contemporary feel that’s easier to maintain and keep clean.
- Ensure floors are clean and free of scratches or stains to convey a well-maintained property.
A neutral, cohesive design helps buyers envision the space as their own, increasing the likelihood of higher offers.
We love helping investors prepare to sell their homes. These five tips are general, but we know they will help any home increase its value. For more personalized strategies, contact us at Ann Tasias & Associates. We’d love to tell you more and be your San Diego property management resource. We manage real estate and investment homes in San Diego, along the I-15 corridor, in communities like Mira Mesa, Scripps Ranch, Rancho Penasquitos, Rancho Bernardo, and Poway.
