A well-maintained and beautifully presented home will always have a significant impact on potential buyers and maximize value when the time comes to sell.
While you may be tempted to hire professionals for every home improvement project, many DIY tasks can make a big difference without breaking the bank.
As an experienced real estate agent in your neighborhood, I believe painting is a task we can all do so long as we’re prepared to undertake the essential preparation work.
A fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into a room and even create the illusion of more square footage.
However, a rushed or sloppy paint job has the opposite effect.
One secret weapon that most DIY painters do not consider is primer.
Primer helps the paint adhere properly to ensure a smooth, even finish. It makes painting so much easier. Here are the common times when you’d use it:
- New construction – Primer is essential for new drywall, raw wood and metal surfaces.
- Dark to light – If you’re changing from a dark color to a light one, primer can prevent the old color from bleeding through.
- Different finishes – Switching from oil-based paint to water-based, or the other way around, requires a primer to ensure proper adhesion of the paint.
- Exterior surfaces – Primer protects exterior paint from the elements and ensures longevity.
Below, I’ve listed some painting tips.
In the meantime, if you’re thinking of selling your home soon, please do not hesitate to contact me. We can discuss local price trends, buyer behaviors and marketing ideas designed to maximize the value of your property.
Here are my painting tips:
Prepare – Don’t skip the “prep work”. Clean the surface thoroughly, patch holes and cracks, and sand rough areas for a smooth finish.
Right tools – Invest in quality brushes, rollers and painter’s tape.
Thin coats – Avoid the temptation to slather on the paint. Multiple thin coats are better than one thick coat, which can lead to drips and unevenness.
Be patient – Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
Tape secret – Read the manufacturer’s instructions before using painter’s tape. If you leave the tape on the wall too long, it can be difficult to remove. Sometimes, when you pull it from the wall, it will take the fresh paint with it – and that is so frustrating!