When I take my clients out to the Toronto real estate market and find a place to call theirs, I’m always trying to get them to focus on the meat and potatoes. After getting my start in real estate with renovations and flips, I’ve become accustomed to assessing the potential of a space by focusing on the basics. Elements like structure, floor plan, ceiling height, amount of sunlight, etc., instead of the shiny details. Now I completely understand renovations and big projects aren’t for everybody. In fact, most home buyers in the GTA are looking for a turnkey house or one that is completely move-in ready. But I’m not talking major renovations today, just some home features buyers love.
Here’s a list of cool and charming features that seem to lure buyers in. But here’s what you should know: you can easily and relatively cheaply add them to any space! Why pay the seller for cosmetic features that you can add much more cheaply yourself and save thousands of dollars? Instead of falling in love with a home because you love the lighting, use your real estate shopping experience as a chance to pick out some things you can DIY to a home with the right bones.
Feature Favourite #1: Stained Glass
I hear you. It’s beautiful and speaks to a home that has character and warmth. However, stained glass isn’t as rare as people believe, and it can be installed. You could even have something custom designed!
Feature Favourite #2: Breakfast Nooks
People go absolutely nutty for these. If you aren’t familiar take a look. A talented carpenter can install one of these for a couple of thousand dollars or you can use existing space the same way with a bench, table, and chairs.
Feature Favourite #3: Barn/Sliding Doors
I love the look of these too. It’s a great option for smaller rooms to eliminate the space an open-swing door takes up. And bonus: they are really affordable and easy to install! A new one will cost you about $300-$500 to purchase, and $500 to install.
Feature Favourite #4: Trendy Kitchen Backsplash
A dramatic backsplash can make a kitchen pop and really tie the room together. If you absolutely fall in love with a style, you can have it installed in a kitchen for about $25/square foot for both labour and tile. Blowout sales at Rona, Home Depot, and Costco can get you amazing prices. Also consider that a tiler usually won’t show up for a job charging less than $1000.
Feature Favourite #5: Accent Lighting
There are so many swoon-worthy lighting options these days that it’s not worth falling in love with a single piece. Also remember a particular lighting fixture may not even be included in the sale of the home. There are a ton of options for lighting, so don’t feel limited by what you see installed. Try these websites for ideas:
Feature Favourite #6: Accent Walls
Easily replicated and there are so many options to do your own thing. Wallpaper, bold paint colours and textured walls can so fun and unique. A painted accent wall can be done professionally for prices ranging from $500-$1000, or DIY for under $100.
The opportunity? When you’re out shopping for real estate, try not to focus on the details you can easily add yourself. Have some fun getting inspired but focus on the big picture. Not sure what to expect when you are ready to starting looking for your perfect home? Check this out for an intro to the process, or contact me for a free buyers guide.
