building your equity

Increase the Value of Your Home on the Cheap

Ensure your home retains its value as the housing crisis eases. Seek out inexpensive projects that will not only brighten up your place, but put a little extra cash in your pocket should you decide to sell. By tending to details that have a positive impact on home value, sellers can significantly increase their chance of attracting qualified buyers willing to pay a reasonable asking price.
According to the National Association of Realtors, median existing home prices are down 7.1 percent from last year -- and aren't expected to recover until well into 2009. Make the most of your hard earned dollars and focus your remodeling efforts on renovations that will boost the home's value and your bottom line. Below are a few tips and projects that will help you achieve your value goals:

Condition
Is your plumbing in good condition? Is the dishwasher in working order? Condition affects value. Buyers will often bargain down your asking price if your home isn't in tip-top shape. Before performing aesthetic upgrades, be sure to tend to your home's basic maintenance projects.

A smart and inexpensive way to ensure your home holds its value is to hire a home inspector. A simple home inspection will help you prioritize your projects and determine which areas would be the most problematic if your home were on the market. Discuss the most cost effective home improvement projects with Lakewood Capital Inc. by calling 888-516-7555 and determine whether a home loan may help you achieve your home value goals.

Cosmetics
Creating a positive first impression is crucial. By focusing on what the buyer sees, you increase both your home's value and your asking price. Spend time evaluating the areas that have the biggest buyer impact, like the kitchen and bathrooms. On average, a kitchen and/or bathroom remodel will yield a return on investment of eighty percent or more. Consider updating your home's look with the following quick and inexpensive projects:

• Paint - Give your home an instant facelift with a fresh coat of neutral color paint. Paint, along with a little sanding and caulking, will eliminate any imperfections caused by daily wear and tear.

• Energy Efficient Appliances - Replace your old, clunky washer and refrigerator with energy efficient appliances. This simple fix not only improves the overall look of your kitchen, but also helps cut your energy bill by quite a bit. The best of both worlds!

• New Fixtures - New hardware can freshen-up a dated home. New, modern door knobs, drawer handles and faucets can inexpensively and quickly transform a kitchen or bathroom.

Clutter
A free and easy way to spruce up your surroundings is to get rid of clutter. Remove any unused appliances and tools from counter tops and eliminate any plant overgrowth or junk in the front and backyard. Everything should have a storage place. If not, have some helpful neighbors keep your things for the time being.

These simple improvements help you bypass the gloomy home trends and gain a competitive edge in the market. Contact Lakewood Capital Inc. online at http://lakewoodcapitalinc.com to learn more about beneficial home improvement projects or to discuss a home improvement loan that best fits your financial situation.
Keeping You Informed
Lakewood Capital Inc. is dedicated to keeping you informed of the latest market trends and mortgage options. Visit us online at http://lakewoodcapitalinc.com or call today at 888-516-7555, to obtain custom loan options designed to fit your needs and help you obtain your home goals.