How to Maximize Your Home's Value Before Listing in the Greater Lehigh Valley: September 2024 Edition

How to Maximize Your Home's Value Before Listing in the Greater Lehigh Valley: September 2024 Edition

By: Erica Rittenhouse

As the leaves begin to turn and the kids head back to school, the real estate market in the Greater Lehigh Valley is entering a crucial period. September is a prime time for selling your home—buyers who didn’t seal the deal in the summer are eager to find the right place before the holidays. If you’re thinking about listing your home this fall, here’s how to maximize its value and attract serious offers.

1. Curb Appeal: Embrace the Fall Aesthetic

September is all about crisp air, vibrant foliage, and cozy vibes. Enhance your home’s curb appeal by leaning into the season—think mums in planters, a well-maintained lawn, and a freshly painted front door in a warm, inviting color like deep red or forest green. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), a well-maintained landscape can increase property values by up to 10% . Don’t forget to keep your yard tidy as the leaves begin to fall; a clean, well-kept exterior signals to buyers that your home is well cared for.

Pro Tip: Consider adding seasonal touches like a tasteful wreath or a few pumpkins on the porch. Buyers love a home that feels warm and welcoming as the weather cools down.

2. Interior Updates: Light and Cozy for Fall

As the days get shorter, it’s important to maximize natural light in your home. Clean your windows, open the blinds, and add warm, cozy touches to your decor. Soft throws, plush pillows, and area rugs in earthy tones can make your home feel inviting. The Zillow 2023 Paint Color Analysis found that homes painted in light, neutral tones sold for more than those with bold or dark colors .

Expert Insight: Buyers in September are looking for homes that feel comfortable as they imagine settling in for the cooler months ahead. A well-lit, cozy interior can make all the difference.

3. Kitchen and Bathroom Focus: Ready for the Holidays

With the holiday season just around the corner, buyers are thinking about kitchens and bathrooms—two areas that get a lot of attention during gatherings. The Cost vs. Value Report 2024 indicates that minor kitchen remodels recoup an average of 77.6% of the cost, while bathroom upgrades offer a 72.7% return . Small updates like new fixtures, modern cabinet hardware, or a stylish backsplash can make these spaces feel fresh and updated.

Did You Know? September is a great time to showcase your home’s entertaining potential, and updated kitchens and bathrooms are key to attracting those buyers who are planning ahead.

4. Declutter and Organize: A Fresh Start for Fall

As families prepare for the new school year, organization is top of mind. Help potential buyers see how they can keep their lives running smoothly by showcasing clean, clutter-free spaces. A study by the Real Estate Staging Association found that 95% of staged homes sell in 11 days or less, compared to an average of 90 days for non-staged homes . Consider organizing closets, tidying up the garage, and clearing out unnecessary items.

Quick Tip: Highlight storage solutions like built-in shelves, closet organizers, or a tidy mudroom. These features are especially appealing to busy families during the back-to-school rush.

5. Energy Efficiency: Appeal to Fall Buyers

As temperatures start to drop, energy efficiency becomes even more important. According to the 2023 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers by NAR, 75% of buyers consider energy-efficient features important . Consider upgrading your insulation, sealing windows, or installing a smart thermostat. These improvements not only make your home more comfortable but also appeal to eco-conscious buyers who want to keep energy bills low.

Market Insight: Energy-efficient homes continue to command higher prices, especially as utility costs rise heading into the colder months.

6. Stage for Fall: Showcase Comfort and Style

September is the time to highlight your home’s warmth and charm. Stage your living areas with soft lighting, cozy textures, and inviting colors. Set the dining table as if you’re ready to host a dinner party, and make sure your outdoor spaces are inviting with comfortable seating and fall-themed decor. According to the NAR, 83% of buyers’ agents said staging a home made it easier for a buyer to visualize the property as their future home .

Industry Stat: Staged homes typically sell faster and for more money, and fall is the perfect time to create that cozy, “move-in ready” atmosphere that buyers love.

Conclusion: Make Your Home the Star of the September Market

The real estate market in the Greater Lehigh Valley is gearing up for a busy fall, and September is a crucial time to list your home. With the right updates and a focus on creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere, you can attract motivated buyers and secure a great deal. Ready to sell? Let’s work together to make your home the standout property of the season.

Sources:

1. National Association of Realtors (NAR), "The Value of Curb Appeal"
2. Zillow, "2023 Paint Color Analysis"
3. Remodeling Magazine, "Cost vs. Value Report 2024"
4. Real Estate Staging Association, "Staging Statistics"
5. National Association of Realtors, "2023 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers"
6. National Association of Realtors, "2024 Home Staging Profile"