The second you drive a brand-new car off the lot, it’s value immediately decreases. The same can be true for a home.
 
The more “lived in” a house is, the more you need to focus on the upkeep. It is important to always consider resale when you become a homeowner.
 
Seems silly, right? You just bought the house; why would you consider putting it up for sale already? Maintenance and proper upkeep is key to a happy and healthy home.
 
In order to keep your home and its surroundings in tip-top shape, we have some pointers for you.

 
Outdated Kitchen

The most important room in the house for any homebuyer is the kitchen. After all, that’s where we spend the most time.
 
Because of that, keeping up with kitchen renovations is key. Renovations that generally drive more success for selling are: updated stainless steel appliances; granite countertops; modern cabinetry; a well-sized pantry; and a sparkly sink with a working garbage disposal.
 
With that, do not personalize your kitchen too much to where it doesn’t appeal to the average homebuyer’s eye. Keep that kitchen cared for because it is the heart of the home.
 

Unclean Carpet

Say no to stains! If your carpet is run down with wears, tears and spills, then it’s time for a do-over.
 
Now is the time to consider replacing that old, worn out carpet with a fresher and cleaner look. Perhaps that means replacing it with new carpet, or maybe upgrading to hardwood floors. Hardwoods are becoming a norm for homes these days and buyers tend to be drawn to this cleaner, more modern feel in a home.
 
Consider an upgrade!
 

Noisy Neighbors

Nobody wants to live next to a frat house or Mr. Grumpy Pants. Although there is not a lot you can do to “fix” the issue of obnoxious neighbors, this factor can play a serious role in decreasing the overall value of your home.
 
As a homeowner, try to be aware of what is going on in your neighborhood. The bad behaviors of others could affect the future expense of your house.
 

Curb Appeal

They say that it’s what on the inside that counts. Well, we hate to break it to you, but when it comes to your house, the outside definitely counts!
 
That being said, make certain your curb appeal is rated a 10 on a scale of 1 to 10. Brush up that rusty paint job. Plant flowers for your neighbors and passers-by to delight in. Trim the branches off that tree that looks like it’s eating your home for lunch.
 
An appealing exterior adds enormous value to a solid interior.

 
Serious Repairs

If your house is in need of serious repairs, it is crucial to get those patched up immediately. More severe cases like a leaky roof, damaged plumbing or a busted HVAC system need to see a house physician ASAP. This is critical-condition status.
 
Repairing serious features of the house not only allows you to live in a healthier environment, it also keeps your home in the “new” category for resale. Cover the basics and ensure that foundational aspects of your home are healthy.
 
For most of us, purchasing a house is the greatest financial investment we will ever make, which is why we need to be diligent and responsible for taking good care of the place we call home.

Neal Johnson is a CMCA, CRB, CNE and GRI-certified, licensed real estate broker at Network Real Estate, which has exclusively served a high volume of property sales and purchases in the greater Wilmington area for more than 30 years. With three offices at College Road, historic downtown Wilmington and Pleasure Island, Network’s brokers are widespread and well-versed in this marketplace, making Network a preferred real estate company for first-time homebuyers and beyond.