First time buyers want ‘turnkey’ ready homes, not ‘fixer uppers’

 

 
As a home seller, you may be thinking that a ‘fixer-upper’ property would appeal to most first time buyers trying to put their first step on the property ladder.  However, according to the results of a recent Coldwell Banker® survey on the preferences of first-time buyers, you’d better think again!

 

Coldwell Banker recently conducted a survey of real estate brokers and sales professionals across Canada and the U.S. to determine the preferences of first time buyers.  The survey findings clearly show that First Time Buyers want a ‘turn key’ property where they can simply move in and start to enjoy living in their new home.  These individuals have typically put the majority of their financial power into the down payment.  They don’t have large reserves of cash available to start putting more money back into the property on major upgrades and renovations.  Add to that their expectations that are heightened by a steady diet of Home and Garden Television!

In addition, first time buyers are typically just starting out in their career and --especially in the case of single buyers -- have little free time available for house repairs.  Bottom line?  The less there is to do on your property in the way of repairs or updates, the more appealing it’s going to be to those buyers.  In most cases, it’s well worth the investment to do the necessary repairs and finishing before putting your home on the market. 

Of course, if you’d like to discuss how any planned repair, upgrade or renovation may affect the potential resale value of your home, your first step should be contacting to contact me for a Home Value Report and assessment of what upgrades and updates would give you the largest return on investment.