Marin County - Pre Market Preparation - Renovation Suggestions

Pre Market Preparation Team O'Brien Real Estate April 23, 2025

Deirdre and I have done plenty of renovations for ourselves, as well as for clients. While we mostly do not do the work ourselves, with the exception of some painting and yard work on occasion, we do have areas we focus on because of the return we see on them. Curb appeal is a must, kitchen and hall bath refresh's (high traffic bath) are top of the list, and fresh paint and carper or flooring always do wonders. Recently we have seen two homes fetch above the benchmark for homes sold in the particular neighborhoods, in each case the yard and/or outside setting was the differentiating points when compared to other sales. And in each case the listing agents and designers focused on highlighting the these aspects of each property. The below list by Financial Times should be referred to often when setting out to prep your home fore sale.

* Here are some thoughts about successful renovating from a serial renovator:

1. Stick to your strengths. Ask yourself what you’re good at and what you enjoy. Plastering is meditative, tiling requires precision, landscaping gets you outdoors.

2. Painting is a great place to start. And delivers the most impact, cheapest, by far.

3. Leave the most dangerous stuff to the professionals, and treat them like family.

4. Be mindful of over-capitalization, even if you’re not worried about making a profit. Even mid-range finishes have a huge impact.

5. Keep a record of everything you spend.

6. keep a close eye on the local property market, even if you have no intention of selling in the short-term. Stay connected to an informed agent who knows.

7. A good floorplan is critical: Agonizing over the layout before you even lift a hammer will set you on the right path.

8. Look for humor in everything you do. Don’t let the stress of dust, bills, delays and your substandard workmanship eat away at you.

9. Create a place where you’d be happy living. In case you cannot/don't want to flip/sell.

10. Accept failure quickly because not every project will go as planned.

~Financial Times

Here to help!

D&D