Crafting Dream Homes in a Challenging Market

Real Estate Today Staff

In today’s real estate market, finding your dream home often feels like searching for a needle in a haystack. As housing supplies diminish, would-be homeowners frequently voice their frustrations about the need for more appealing options. If you’ve recently been in the market, the odds are you’ve grappled with this issue firsthand.

A pervasive misconception exists among buyers that a home requiring any work is automatically off the table. Faded paint or a dated kitchen backsplash can overshadow a house’s potential. This fear is generally rooted in a common concern: the assumed time and expense of renovation.

However, Steve and Thalyta Swanson of Renovation Sells in Northern Colorado urge buyers to adopt a broader perspective. They believe even homes that seem “less than perfect” can be transformed into dream abodes with creativity and expertise.

Steve Swanson passionately shared, “People often overlook homes with tremendous potential. A little vision and cosmetic tweaks can turn an ‘okay’ house into your forever home. It’s about seeing beyond the immediate and understanding the transformative power of simple renovations.”

Unlocking Potential with Simple Renovations

Simple and cost-effective modifications can vastly improve the appearance and feel of a home. Here are some top tips from the Swansons:

Paint: A fresh coat of paint is more than just a color change. It’s an immediate mood lifter and can help define the atmosphere of a room. When selecting paint, consider the room’s natural light. Soft neutrals can brighten a space, while deeper hues can add a touch of luxury. Don’t forget about finishes either — a satin finish can be easier to clean, while a matte finish can hide imperfections on the wall.
Flooring: A floor sets the foundation of any room. If hardwood seems too pricey, consider laminate or vinyl flooring, which mimics the look of natural wood but offers greater durability and easier maintenance. For areas like the kitchen or bathroom, water-resistant flooring options can offer longevity. Remember, sometimes even just refinishing or deep cleaning the existing flooring can bring a dramatic improvement.
Fixtures: These small details can make or break a room’s aesthetic. Update old fixtures with modern designs in finishes like brushed nickel, matte black, or antique bronze. Think beyond just faucets — door handles, lighting fixtures, and even switch plates can contribute to the overall look. Opting for energy-efficient fixtures can also reduce utility bills in the long run.
Cabinets: Before considering a replacement, think of ways to rejuvenate what you already have. Painting is one approach, but you can also reface cabinets by replacing just the doors and drawer fronts. Upgrade with modern handles and knobs to complete the fresh look. Inside the cabinets, consider adding organizers or pull-out trays for enhanced functionality.
Tiles: Especially in the bathroom and kitchen, tiles can dictate the room’s vibe. If they’re neutral and in good condition but simply look dated, consider pairing them with modern decor or fresh wall paint. For a more significant update without replacing them, re-grouting can refresh the entire look. There is always the option to replace them, but this is the more costly option. However, having the pattern or color you love may be worth it if it brings everything together cohesively.

Renovation Sells: Making Dreams Reality

For buyers wary of the renovation process, there’s good news. Established companies like Renovation Sells provide comprehensive design, construction, and financing services, effectively streamlining the transformation journey.

Thalyta Swanson elaborates, “We work closely with buyers before the closing. By doing so, we ensure that once they have the keys, the transformation begins immediately. We typically complete projects within a few weeks, letting homeowners settle into their dream homes faster.”

By reframing how we view properties that might need some presale renovations, we can widen the range of possibilities. With the right vision and expert support, any home, regardless of its current state, can be molded into a personal sanctuary.