When done well, home renovations can raise the value of your home and help you sell more quickly. On the other hand, home renovations can present a whole world of problems for you if they are done poorly. Some realtors have a wealth of experience in the world of home renovations and inspections, which can be tremendously valuable to you as you look to buy or sell a home on the Trumbull, CT, real estate scene. Here are some of the benefits of working with a realtor who has expert knowledge in design, renovations, and inspections.

1) Your Realtor Can Spot Renovations That Weren't Done By Professionals

It’s easy for someone with a trained eye to notice when a home renovation was a DIY project. There’s nothing inherently wrong with choosing to do work on your own. In fact, many people consider it a hobby to take on projects in their homes. The risk, however, is that someone who isn’t trained on how to do a particular renovation or improvement will cut corners or skip key steps in the process. This may impact the appearance of the renovation, or it could impact the home’s long-term condition or durability.

If a renovation or repair wasn’t done correctly, it might be more expensive or time-consuming to fix the damage later on. It may also violate various city codes and regulations. If your realtor has past experience in home renovations or inspections, they might spot subtle clues that you would otherwise miss. They will point out the issue and explain to you what it might mean so that you can make an informed decision about moving forward with making an offer. 

2) Your Realtor Can Assess Your Inspection Report With You

After you agree to purchase a home, you will likely schedule an inspection within the next seven to ten days. Typically, this will take place during the option period in your home contract. The main purpose of an option period is to protect the buyer in the event that the inspection reveals serious concerns about the overall condition of your home.

Your inspector will share their findings with you in an inspection report, but you may not understand all of the details or where to go from here. If your realtor has performed inspections on their own or if they have worked with several inspectors in the past, it may be helpful for the two of you to set aside time to look at the inspection report together.

Your realtor can explain what the different findings mean and how you may have to address certain issues or repair concerns in the future. They can also tell you if they see things differently than the inspector. Performing a home inspection is not an exact science, and different individuals will have their own opinions at times. By working with a Trumbull realtor who is well-versed in inspections, you can gain more valuable insight into how to care for the property or which repairs need to be made before you move in.

3) Your Realtor Can Suggest Future Renovations That You May Want To Consider

This is helpful for both buyers and sellers. Perhaps you’re thinking about selling your home in the near future, but you don’t have a firm timeframe for when you would like to take the next step. If you still have time to do some work on your home, your realtor can help you understand what features or amenities buyers are looking for in today’s market. They could even recommend contractors or service providers for you to work with on the renovation or project.

If you’re buying a Trumbull home, your agent may have an idea of two or three projects that you could do to a home that would improve the home’s livability right away or boost the home’s future value. This may help you see a home in a different light than how you first perceived it.

Keep in mind that not all home projects have the same ROI. There are some jobs you can take on that may make the home more enjoyable to live in, but you shouldn’t expect to make all (or most) of the money back that you’ll spend upfront.

Usually, the home projects that have the highest ROI involve making minor changes to your kitchen and bathroom. Major renovations also tend to have a high return, but some people aren’t willing to do work that is more extensive or time-consuming. Buyers are also interested in homes with expanded outdoor living spaces and energy-efficient features. Consider installing a new garage door or replacing your windows to improve your home’s insulation. You’ll make more money when you sell your home, and you’ll also save on your utility bills in the meantime while you’re still living there.

4) Your Realtor Will Help You Think More Rationally And Less Emotionally

It can be easy to fall in love with a home to the point where you’re willing to ignore obvious problems or concerns. A realtor who has experience with home renovations and inspections may have wise insight on a deal that appears too good to be true. They can help you understand when a home’s price has dropped because of concerns about the home’s structure or foundation. They will explain what this issue means for you, both financially and in terms of the quality of life that you may have if you chose to buy the home. This can prevent you from making decisions that may cost thousands of dollars and hours of frustration down the road.

Ready To Get Started?

If you’re looking for a realtor who has vast knowledge and a wide range of experience when it comes to home renovations and inspections, look no further than Matthew Hyde. Matthew is passionate about real estate, but he’s even more passionate about serving his clients. He is knowledgeable and experienced in the world of real estate and has a background in renovations and residential home construction. His in-depth knowledge about the state of Trumbull, CT, real estate will be tremendously valuable for you as you look to buy or sell a home. Reach out to Matthew if you’re looking for someone to help you shop for Trumbull homes for sale.