Do These Home Upgrades and Sell Your House for More This Spring

The Door Centre • April 23, 2018

 

Spring is the ideal time to sell your house. More buyers shop around now than at any other time of year. But more sellers step into the market, too, so you have to do something extra to make your house stand out in that crazy spring real estate market. Put up that for sale sign, and people will come see your house, but leave your house in obvious need of home upgrades, and you might not get any offers.

Here are some of the upgrades buyers will notice and get excited about.

Window with plant on window sill -Do These Home Upgrades and Sell Your House for More This Spring
 

What Kind of Shape Are Your Windows and Doors in?

Windows, entryway doors and garage doors are important to buyers.

  • If your windows show moisture between the panes, they’ll use that as an excuse to talk down your asking price.
  • If your front door is dented, warped, and drafty, they’ll notice.
  • If your garage door is cracked or doesn’t lock properly, you’ll hear about it.

You don’t have to replace them all before your house hits the market, but replacing some is a good idea.

What should you replace?

With brand new windows, you get a transferable warranty – something your buyers love.

Open Dishwasher - Do These Home Upgrades and Sell Your House for More This Spring
 

How Old Are Your Appliances and Light Fixtures?

New appliances are attractive to buyers.

Appliances are an investment, and you can work the cost into your overall asking price to recover the money for your family.

Buyers are more likely to walk away from a house if they know they have to buy new appliances, but they are usually comfortable knowing those new appliances are simply worked into their new mortgage.

The same goes for light fixtures.

A dated light fixture looks like an expense and work for potential buyers. Many buyers in the spring market look for genuinely move-in ready homes.

You don’t have to spend an arm and a leg on new light fixtures. A new look can come from Kijiji or the Facebook Marketplace.

Repainting a wall a neutral colour from baby blue - Do These Home Upgrades and Sell Your House for More This Spring
 

Paint Everything Bright and Neutral.

A bright orange accent wall in the living room may have been right for you, but a buyer is almost certainly thrown off by bold colour choices.

Most homeowners prefer bright, neutral paint. Colour comes from smaller design touches and other keepsakes of their own.

Paint for a 2,000 sq.ft house might cost $500-600 (if you also repaint your ceilings), but could help sell your house much faster than leaving your current colours.

Dulux paint offers 25% off to CAA members year-round, and most paint brands do semi-annual sales of buy one get one free or 50% off all paint. So check for sales today!

 

People Really Buy Kitchens and Bathrooms.

Buyers identify kitchens and bathrooms as the most important elements in a potential new home.

Whatever you can do to make your looks their best, do it.

From replacing your old windows to just cleaning up the clutter so your counter space appears greater, every bit will help.

If the towel racks eat into the usable bathroom space, take them down and leave the wall bare. Remove all your tooth brushes, hair products and other clutter from the countertops.

If the laminate countertops in your kitchen are beat up, replace them with an affordable bamboo counter. It will cost most homeowners less than $300, and look great.

If you’re ready to make your house more enticing with window upgrades and more, you’re in luck. Right now, you save big on windows and doors at our showroom.

  • 40% off windows.
  • 30% off painted fiberglass doors.

It’s a competitive market and you want that full asking price.

By Derrick Block January 4, 2025
When preparing to sell your home, first impressions matter. Potential buyers often form an opinion about a property within moments of stepping onto the front porch. While landscaping, exterior paint, and curb appeal play vital roles, one feature stands out as a game-changer in enhancing your home's attractiveness: the front door. Replacing your front door not only boosts the overall curb appeal but also increases the value of your home, making it a wise investment when selling in Canada. Why the Front Door Matters The front door is more than just an entryway—it’s a symbol of the warmth and security that a home offers. It’s the focal point of the exterior and sets the tone for what lies inside. An old, worn-out door can detract from your home’s charm, while a modern, stylish one can immediately elevate the look of your property. According to the National Association of Realtors and other real estate studies, homebuyers are more likely to pay a premium for homes with updated and visually appealing exteriors. A front door replacement is one of the most cost-effective ways to make a strong first impression. The ROI of a Front Door Replacement In Canada, homebuyers are highly conscious of both aesthetic appeal and practicality. A front door replacement adds to the functionality, safety, and energy efficiency of a home, all of which are highly valued. The return on investment (ROI) for replacing your front door can be substantial. According to several Canadian real estate experts, you can expect to recover 70-90% of the cost of replacing a front door when selling your home. This is a higher ROI than many other home improvements, such as kitchen or bathroom remodels, which can be significantly more expensive and disruptive. Choosing the Right Front Door for Maximum Value When selecting a front door replacement, it’s essential to choose one that not only suits the architectural style of your home but also reflects current design trends. In Canada, homeowners are drawn to durable and energy-efficient materials that can withstand the harsh winters and hot summers. Material Matters: Steel and fiberglass doors are popular for their durability and energy efficiency. They also require less maintenance compared to wood doors. If you're in a colder climate, consider choosing a door with high insulation values to help with energy savings. Design Trends: A modern, sleek design can give your home an upscale look. For example, doors with glass inserts, sidelights, or transom windows can create an inviting and contemporary appeal. However, make sure the design complements your home's architectural style. For instance, a traditional brick house may look best with a classic wood or paneled steel door, while a modern home could benefit from a sleek fiberglass or composite door. Security Features: Canadian buyers prioritize security, and a robust front door can offer peace of mind. Look for doors with multi-point locking systems, solid construction, and reinforced frames to appeal to safety-conscious buyers. Colour: A striking colour can set your home apart. Bold colours like red or navy can make your front door stand out, while more neutral shades like charcoal or taupe are versatile and appeal to a broad range of buyers. The Energy Efficiency Factor In Canada, energy efficiency is an increasingly important concern for homebuyers. The cold winters and fluctuating temperatures make a front door that insulates well a significant selling point. A door with high R-values, particularly one made of fiberglass or insulated steel, can keep the cold out and lower heating costs. As energy prices continue to rise, buyers are keen on homes that help reduce energy consumption, and a new front door can be a major selling point. Final Thoughts Replacing your front door before listing your home in Canada is a small investment that can lead to significant returns. Not only does it improve curb appeal and make your home more attractive to buyers, but it also offers security, energy efficiency, and long-term durability. Whether you’re in Toronto, Vancouver, or any other Canadian city, a front door replacement is a smart and cost-effective way to increase your home's value and stand out in the competitive real estate market.
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Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Windows and Doors Before Winter Hits As winter approaches in Canada, ensuring your home is ready for the cold months is crucial. One of the most significant areas to focus on is your windows and doors. Older, worn-out windows and doors can lead to drafts, energy loss, and higher heating bills. Here are some key signs that it’s time to replace your windows and doors before winter hits, particularly if you’re considering energy-efficient options like vinyl windows and fiberglass doors. 1. Drafts and Air Leaks One of the most noticeable signs that your windows and doors need replacing is the presence of drafts. If you can feel cold air seeping through the edges of your windows or doors, it’s a clear indication that they aren’t sealing properly. Over time, weatherstripping can wear down, and frames can warp, allowing cold air to enter and warm air to escape. This not only makes your home uncomfortable but also leads to increased energy costs. 2. Condensation and Moisture Issues If you notice condensation between the panes of your double-glazed windows or moisture forming around your doors, it’s a sign that the seals are failing. This can lead to mold growth and damage to your home’s structure. Replacing these windows and doors with high-quality options, such as energy-efficient vinyl windows and fiberglass doors, can help eliminate these issues, as they offer better insulation and durability. 3. Visible Damage Take a close look at your windows and doors. Are there cracks in the frames? Is the paint peeling or the wood rotting? Visible damage not only detracts from your home’s appearance but can also compromise energy efficiency. Vinyl windows are a great option here, as they resist peeling and cracking, ensuring longevity and low maintenance. 4. High Energy Bills If your heating bills have been steadily rising, it may be due to inefficient windows and doors. Old or damaged installations can allow heat to escape, forcing your heating system to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. Upgrading to modern vinyl windows and fiberglass doors can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency, resulting in lower utility bills over time. 5. Difficulty Opening and Closing If you find it increasingly challenging to open or close your windows and doors, it may be time for a replacement. This difficulty can stem from warped frames or worn-out hardware, which can affect the overall security of your home. New, high-quality windows and doors will operate smoothly and securely, providing peace of mind during the winter months. 6. Increased Noise Pollution If your home seems louder than usual, it may indicate that your windows and doors are not adequately insulating against outside noise. High-performance vinyl windows and fiberglass doors are designed to provide better sound insulation, making your home a quieter and more comfortable sanctuary during the bustling winter months. Conclusion As winter approaches, taking stock of your windows and doors is essential. If you notice drafts, condensation, visible damage, rising energy bills, difficulty operating your windows and doors, or increased noise, it may be time to consider replacements. Opting for energy-efficient vinyl windows and fiberglass doors can enhance your home’s comfort, reduce heating costs, and improve your property’s overall aesthetic. Don’t wait until the first snowfall—address these issues now to ensure your home remains warm and welcoming all winter long!
By The Door Centre September 6, 2023
As we enter a more eco-conscious era, homeowners are seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint. One powerful change lies right within your home’s walls. Energy-efficient windows not only cut down on energy costs but also enhance indoor comfort. But how do you determine which window type suits your home? Here, we tell you everything you need to know to maximize your home’s efficiency with new windows .
By The Door Centre August 16, 2023
Your home’s windows play a vital role in maintaining its comfort, style, and energy efficiency. Upgrading your windows can give your home a facelift while increasing its value. In this FAQ style guide, we give you the information you need to consider before installing new windows.
By The Door Centre June 6, 2023
Selecting a new front door is an exciting process as it gives you a chance to elevate one of the most used areas of your home. In fact, it isn’t merely a home improvement task; it’s an opportunity to reimagine your entrance and make a statement.
By The Door Centre April 5, 2023
As a homeowner, you don’t only want your new doors to look good but also to be durable and long-lasting. When choosing a new front door, it’s essential to consider the materials that will provide the longest lifespan while maintaining the door’s quality. Below, we will discuss the most durable door materials for exterior doors while keeping affordability and style in mind.
By The Door Centre March 11, 2023
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