Dear David,

We’re planning on making improvements to our home and yard next spring. We anticipate owning this house for the next five years at least, so want to make choices that serve us well over the long term. Our house is set on a corner lot. The property is laid out in such a way that we still have a nice backyard, though it’s hard to tell where the boundaries are located. We have a shed that was old when we bought the house, and are considering replacing our aging shingles with a new metal roof. Which improvements should we prioritize to get the biggest bang for our buck when it’s time to sell? – LOOKING AHEAD

DEAR LOOKING: Because you are planning to spend at least another five years in your home, it makes sense to plan with the short and long term in mind. You’ll want to enjoy the improvements you make while you’re still in the house, and also consider which updates can help attract future buyers.

Corner lots sometimes get a bad rap, but a well-designed outdoor space can enhance your enjoyment of the home no matter how your lot is shaped. If you have room in your budget, consider adding an attractive fence to help delineate and frame the yard, create privacy, and help future buyers visualize the potential of your outdoor space.

A new shed can elevate the look. There are plenty of attractive options, so take the time to do some research and choose one that suits your needs (ideally, pick a style or colour that complements your new fence). Buyers may not look inside the shed during showings, but it’ll add to the overall aesthetic of the yard, which is a big part of what you’re selling.

As a Realtor, I always like being able to point out a recently-updated roof. The challenge with choosing a metal roof is that it’s hard to justify the extra cost compared to conventional shingles. This is another situation where research is key: compare the cost, expected lifespan, warranty and maintenance requirements of each option before deciding if you think the added durability is worth the premium price. A newer roof is a strong selling feature whether metal or shingled, so it really comes down to what makes sense for your budget given the length of time you plan to stay in the house.

PRO TIP: Some people try to run a cost-benefit analysis on every home improvement project, but real estate value is subjective. Buyers tend to fall in love with a home on an emotional level, then build a logical argument to justify the purchase. Focus on creating a space that you enjoy, as most of us spend about two-thirds of our time at home. When it comes time to sell, others can visualize themselves enjoying your property as well. #Advice #AskDavid #TheNegotiator 

David is a top-selling Broker in Kitchener-Waterloo Region. He works personally with you when selling or buying your home. Moving? Get it right. Ask David today! Call or text 519-577-1212.