Betty Robey, Author at Saltwater Grande

Short-term rentals have become a cornerstone of the modern travel experience, offering travelers a unique and personalized alternative to traditional hotels. In the ever-evolving landscape of hospitality, the importance of staying ahead cannot be overstated. Regularly updating your Myrtle Beach short-term rental property is not just a recommendation; it’s a necessity in today’s competitive market. Let’s delve into the myriad advantages that come with keeping your rental property fresh and appealing to your guests.

Enhancing Guest Experience

Fresh Interiors and Decor

The first impression is often the most lasting. When guests walk into a space that feels new, vibrant, and well-maintained, it sets a positive tone for their entire stay. Regularly updating the interiors with fresh paint, stylish furnishings, and tasteful decor can breathe new life into your rental property. Consider adopting unique design elements that reflect the locale, creating an immersive experience for your guests.

Upgraded Amenities

Guests appreciate attention to detail, especially when it comes to amenities. Simple upgrades like high-quality linens, premium toiletries, and a well-equipped kitchen can make a significant difference. Consider investing in luxurious touches such as plush robes, Nespresso machines, or even a curated selection of local wines. These thoughtful additions can elevate the overall guest experience, garnering rave reviews and repeat visits.

Incorporating Smart Technology

In today’s digital age, integrating smart technology into your short-term rental is more than just a luxury; it’s an expectation. Smart locks, thermostats, and entertainment systems not only enhance convenience but also provide an added layer of security. Guests value the ability to control their environment effortlessly. Embracing these advancements not only attracts tech-savvy travelers but also positions your property as modern and forward-thinking.

Boosting Property Value

Increased Demand and Higher Rates

A well-maintained and updated short-term rental is in high demand. Travelers are willing to pay a premium for properties that offer exceptional comfort and contemporary amenities. By regularly updating your rental, you can justify charging higher rates, increasing your revenue potential. Elevated rates not only cover the cost of updates but also contribute significantly to your overall profitability.

Positive Reviews and Reputation

Guest satisfaction is the lifeblood of any successful rental business. Positive reviews serve as social proof, enticing potential guests and building your property’s reputation. Regular updates and enhancements directly translate to positive guest experiences. Happy guests are more likely to leave glowing reviews, which, in turn, attract more bookings. A stellar reputation is a valuable asset, ensuring a steady flow of bookings throughout the year.

Attracting High-Value Guests

Discerning travelers seek out accommodations that offer more than just a place to stay. They crave an experience tailored to their desires. By updating your Myrtle Beach short term rental with a focus on luxury and comfort, you appeal to high-value guests—individuals willing to pay a premium for an exceptional experience. These guests often appreciate the finer things in life and are more likely to treat your property with respect, resulting in fewer damages and a smoother overall rental experience.

Staying Competitive

Adapting to Market Trends

The travel industry is continuously evolving, with new trends shaping guest expectations. By staying updated on these trends and integrating relevant features into your rental, you remain relevant and appealing to a broad range of travelers. Whether it’s eco-friendly practices, wellness amenities, or pet-friendly options, adapting to market trends ensures your property stands out in a crowded marketplace.

Analyzing Competitor Offerings

Understanding what your competitors offer is essential in crafting a unique selling proposition for your rental. Regularly assessing similar listings in your area allows you to identify gaps in amenities or services. By addressing these gaps through updates and improvements, you can create a competitive advantage, attracting guests who are specifically seeking what your property uniquely provides.

Standing Out Amongst Similar Listings

The key to success in the short-term rental industry lies in differentiation. Up-to-date properties with distinctive features capture the attention of potential guests. Consider unique themes, local art installations, or personalized welcome packages that set your rental apart. These thoughtful touches create a memorable experience, ensuring guests return and recommend your property to others.

Efficiency and Sustainability

Energy-Efficient Appliances

Incorporating energy-efficient appliances not only reduces utility costs but also appeals to environmentally conscious travelers. Guests appreciate eco-friendly initiatives, and properties equipped with energy-saving devices demonstrate a commitment to sustainability. This conscientious approach not only benefits the environment but also resonates positively with guests, fostering a sense of goodwill and loyalty.

Eco-Friendly Practices

Implementing eco-friendly practices goes beyond appliances. Consider using eco-conscious cleaning products, providing recycling facilities, and encouraging guests to participate in environmentally friendly initiatives. Sustainability is not just a buzzword; it’s a lifestyle choice for many travelers. By aligning your property with these values, you attract like-minded guests who appreciate your commitment to responsible tourism.

Cost-Effective Upgrades

Updating your short-term rental doesn’t have to break the bank. Cost-effective upgrades, such as repainting, upgrading lighting fixtures, or adding indoor plants, can make a substantial difference. These small changes create a fresh ambiance without a significant financial investment. Additionally, periodic maintenance checks ensure that your property remains in top condition, preventing costly repairs down the line.

Legal and Safety Compliance

Meeting Local Regulations

Adhering to local regulations and zoning laws is paramount in the short-term rental business. Regular updates should include necessary safety features, such as smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits, to comply with local regulations. Understanding and following the law not only protects you legally but also ensures the safety and well-being of your guests, building trust and confidence in your rental property.

Ensuring Guest Safety

Guest safety should always be a top priority. Regular maintenance checks and updates guarantee that all safety features are functioning correctly. This includes inspecting electrical systems, gas appliances, and plumbing to prevent accidents or malfunctions. A safe environment fosters a positive guest experience, encouraging guests to return and recommend your property to others.

Liability Mitigation

Updating your Myrtle Beach short-term rental also involves reviewing and updating your liability insurance. As the hospitality landscape evolves, so do the risks associated with renting out properties. Ensuring that your insurance policies are up-to-date and cover all potential scenarios provides you with peace of mind. In the event of unforeseen circumstances, comprehensive insurance coverage safeguards your financial interests and protects your rental business.

Conclusion

In the fast-paced world of short-term rentals, regular updates are not just advantageous; they are essential. Enhancing the guest experience, boosting property value, staying competitive, embracing efficiency and sustainability, and ensuring legal and safety compliance are the cornerstones of a successful rental business. By investing in these aspects, you not only attract more guests but also cultivate a loyal customer base. The advantages of updating your short-term rental extend far beyond immediate financial gains; they pave the way for long-term success and sustainability in the ever-thriving hospitality industry.

Myrtle Beach, usually bustling with summer vacationers, undergoes a serene transformation during the winter months. Exploring this coastal gem off-season reveals a different charm, one that beckons travelers with its tranquil beaches, hidden gems, and a plethora of activities that cater to every taste.

Embracing the Tranquil Beach

Winter in Myrtle Beach offers a unique opportunity to experience the beach in its most peaceful state. The vast expanse of sand, kissed by the gentle winter sun, becomes an inviting canvas for beachcombers and wanderers. The rhythmic sound of the waves becomes a soothing melody, encouraging contemplative walks and moments of quiet introspection.

Exploring the Hidden Gems

Venturing beyond the well-trodden paths, visitors can discover Myrtle Beach’s hidden gems. Quaint local markets come alive with the colors of handmade crafts and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Art galleries, adorned with eclectic pieces from local artists, invite enthusiasts to lose themselves in creativity. Cozy cafes tucked away in narrow lanes offer warm spaces to indulge in intellectual conversations and aromatic beverages.

Engaging in Water Sports

For the adventurous souls, Myrtle Beach doesn’t shy away from water activities even in winter. Kayaking through the calm waters becomes a mesmerizing experience as the chilly breeze heightens the senses. Paddle boarding enthusiasts find delight in the challenge of balance amidst the serene waters, the thrill amplified by the cool winter air.

Delving into Local Cuisine

Myrtle Beach’s culinary scene flourishes even in winter, offering a delightful array of local delicacies. Seafood, fresh and flavorful, dominates the menus, pleasing the palates of culinary enthusiasts. From succulent shrimp and grits to hearty she-crab soup, the local cuisine narrates a story of the sea, warmth, and culinary expertise.

Enjoying Cultural Events

Winter in Myrtle Beach is far from dull, with a myriad of cultural events that beckon visitors. Festivals celebrating art, music, and local traditions paint the town with vibrant hues. Concerts serenade the evenings, filling the air with melodies, while art exhibitions showcase the talent of local and international artists. Engaging in these events provides an immersive experience into the heart and soul of the city.

Discovering Nature Trails

Nature enthusiasts find solace in Myrtle Beach’s well-maintained trails, perfect for winter hikes and birdwatching. The trails, adorned with native flora, offer a glimpse into the region’s biodiversity. Birdwatchers are in for a treat as winter brings migratory birds, turning the trails into a paradise for ornithologists and nature lovers alike.

Family-Friendly Attractions

Families traveling to Myrtle Beach during winter need not worry about keeping the young ones entertained. Museums come to life with interactive exhibits, weaving education seamlessly into entertainment. Amusement parks, although quieter than in summer, offer an enchanting experience with shorter lines and more personalized attention, creating cherished memories for the whole family.

Relaxation and Wellness

Winter provides the ideal setting for relaxation and wellness. Myrtle Beach boasts an array of spas, wellness centers, and yoga studios. Here, visitors can rejuvenate their minds and bodies, indulging in massages, yoga sessions, and holistic treatments. The tranquil atmosphere of these spaces enhances the overall sense of well-being, making winter the perfect season for self-care.

Planning Day Trips

For those with an adventurous spirit, Myrtle Beach serves as a gateway to nearby destinations worth exploring. Picturesque towns and natural wonders lie within a day’s reach, encouraging travelers to embark on enriching day trips. Planning these excursions strategically adds a layer of exploration to the winter vacation, offering a diverse experience beyond the confines of Myrtle Beach.

In essence, Myrtle Beach during winter is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered. The city’s quietude, coupled with its array of activities, provides a perfect backdrop for a memorable vacation. Embracing the tranquility of the beach, savoring local flavors, engaging in cultural experiences, and exploring nature trails create an enriching winter getaway, making Myrtle Beach a destination worth visiting even when the temperatures drop.

In the competitive landscape of short-term rentals in Myrtle Beach, the role of professional property management has become pivotal. As the demand for unique and comfortable accommodations continues to soar, property owners are recognizing the wisdom in entrusting their investments to experts who navigate the intricate web of the rental market with finesse.

Professional property managers possess a deep understanding of local rental regulations. Their expertise ensures that your property stays on the right side of the law, avoiding potential legal entanglements.

Competitive Pricing and Marketing

By Analyzing the local market, and utilizing today’s software and technology, property managers have the tools needed to fine-tune pricing strategies. This delicate balance between competitiveness and profitability is an art and ensures your Myrtle Beach property stands out without burning a hole in guests’ pockets.

While crafting a compelling narrative around your property and utilizing their networks and platforms to market your rental effectively, their expertise lies in highlighting your property’s unique features. This will attract guests who appreciate what you offer. Understanding that each guest is unique, property managers tailor experiences based on individual preferences. From welcome amenities to local experiences, these personalized touches transform a stay into a cherished memory.

Picture having a dedicated team providing round-the-clock assistance to your guests ensuring their questions and concerns are addressed promptly and offering a seamless experience that resonates long after check-out.

Maintenance and Housekeeping

Coordinating arrivals and departures is an art form that your property manager handles. This ensures your property is always ready for the next guest, eliminating the stress of managing the nitty-gritty details.

They conduct thorough inspections, identifying and addressing maintenance issues before they escalate. This proactive approach ensures your property maintains its allure. In the face of unexpected repairs, property managers swiftly manage the situation, ensuring guest safety and satisfaction. Property owners can rest easy, knowing that any emergencies are handled efficiently.

Cleanliness is paramount in the hospitality industry. Professional managers employ well trained and highly efficient housekeeping personnel who maintain impeccable standards that guests appreciate.

Maximizing Revenue

Property managers explore avenues to increase rental income. Through strategic approaches, they maximize revenue ensuring optimal financial returns. In addition, keeping track of property-related expenses is crucial for financial stability. Property managers handle these details and provide end of year reporting necessary for tax filing.

Guest satisfaction is paramount, and your property manager prioritizes ensuring positive experiences, prompting guests to leave glowing reviews. Happy guests become your property’s best advocates.

In the face of negative feedback, property managers handle the situation with professionalism and promptness and demonstrate a commitment to resolving concerns which showcases your dedication to guest satisfaction.

Peace of Mind

By entrusting your property to professional managers, you liberate your time. Property owners can pursue other endeavors, knowing that their investment is in capable hands.

From minor hiccups to major challenges, property managers handle unexpected situations, ensuring your property runs smoothly. This hands-on approach provides peace of mind to property owners. In the dynamic world of short-term rentals, choosing a professional property manager like Saltwater Grande is not just a smart move; it’s a game-changer. Their expertise, personalized approach, and meticulous attention to detail transform your property into a lucrative investment, offering you the freedom to focus on what truly matters. Embrace the wisdom of a professional Myrtle Beach property management company and watch your rental business thrive.

Last year the City of Conway, located just 15 miles outside of Myrtle Beach, SC, changed its name for the month of October. The town went all out, hanging pumpkins from the trees and witch hats across the streets. During the month long celebration, they call themselves Halloween, SC. Initially, it was conceived as a clever marketing tactic to bring business to the downtown district.

The event was such a success, the City decided to make Halloween, SC, an annual tradition. This year the City has expanded their decorations which will include nearly 3000 orange pumpkins in the City as well as teal pumpkins on the Coastal Carolina University campus, pink pumpkins to decorate Conway Medical Center and blue pumpkins for Horry-Georgetown Technical College.

Many of the local businesses and organizations have gotten involved and there will be happenings nearly every day throughout the month of October. The list of events include festivals, wine tastings, haunted trails, a pickle ball tournament, ghost walks through town, movie nights and a Halloween golf cart parade and Homecoming parade for Coastal Carolina University.

If you’re looking for more traditional Halloween fright, The City of Conway Parks & Recreation will offer the 2nd Annual Forest of Fear. Make sure you also check out Theatre of the Republic‘s “Little Shop of Horrors” and take a spooky river tour with Waccamaw Outfitters.

Halloween, SC is a must visit destination this October for all the spooky fun!

It’s no secret that Short Term Rental companies charge fees to their guests. But, did you ever wonder exactly what all those fees are for? I’m sure there are many people who think property managers charge unnecessary fees just to line their pockets. The truth of the matter is it’s very expensive to operate a successful short term rental property management company.

At Saltwater Grande, the fees are always displayed during the entire booking process, so there is never a surprise when it comes to the bottom line.

Here is a look at some of the things Saltwater Grande’s fees pay for:

Cleaning Fee:

Bed Linens (cleaning, sanitizing and processing)

Terry Products (towels, washcloths, beach towels, hand towels, bath mats & kitchen towels)

Paper Products (trash can liners, paper towels, soaps, toilet paper, dishwasher tabs, dish soap)

Cleaner

Inspector

Cleaning Products

Gift bag & Contents

Laundering comforters, pillows, shower curtains, etc.

Accommodation Services Fee:

Damage Waiver Insurance

DACK (Concierge App)

Keyless Entry Monthly Lock Monitoring Fees

Guest Ranger (Virtual Check-in Fee for ID and Credit Card Verification)

Credit Card Processing Fee

Booking Fee:

Dynamic Pricing Fee (Beyond)

Booking Insight Fee (Airbnb and vrbo comparison tool on website)

Booking Software Fee (Streamline)

OTA Fee:

Distribution Channel Fee (Airbnb, vrbo, Home2Go)

The short term rental industry grows more competitive every year, and as you can see, a lot goes into making all the wheels turn in today’s vacation rental market. Short term rental fees are a necessary part of giving guests a great experience. However, there are ways to cut down on some of these types of fees. Booking directly with a short term rental property management company that is local in the area you want to visit can eliminate both the service fee that distribution channels charge as well as the OTA fee charged by the rental company. There are other advantages to booking direct. Most importantly, you will have a live person who is familiar with the property and local area attractions to contact with questions.

So, if you find yourself wondering why short term rental companies charge so many fees, most reputable companies are happy to explain the added benefits that these fees allow them to provide their guests. In most cases you actually do get what you pay for!

Posted on Tripster.com – January 5, 2023

Written by Kelsi Johnson.

Pristine beaches, delectable seafood, and family-friendly attractions. Myrtle Beach has it all. But what is the best time to go to Myrtle Beach and experience all it has to offer?

Even though Myrtle Beach is fantastic year-round, certain seasons are better than others when it comes to the weather, hotel prices, and attraction availability. Follow along to discover when the best time to visit Myrtle Beach is!

Deciding when the best time to go to Myrtle Beach doesn’t need to be tricky. Is your family looking to splash in the waves and soak up the sun in the heat of summer? Are you dreaming of a laid-back vacation with fewer crowds while still enjoying the attractions and experiences that are unique to Myrtle Beach? Or maybe a trip to Myrtle Beach during the holidays to see millions of twinkling lights dazzle the Grand Strand sounds merriest.

Regardless of what your Coastal Carolina trip vision may look like, keep reading as we spill the sweet tea on not only the best time of year to go to Myrtle Beach but Myrtle Beach’s busy season and the cheapest time to go to Myrtle Beach!

Myrtle Beach Weather

Wondering what the temperature is in Myrtle Beach right now? Home to great weather Myrtle Beach, SC has mild winters and warm summers!

If you’re the type of traveler who would visit a beach year-round just to be by the ocean, there’s no best month to visit Myrtle Beach. They’re all great! However, if you prefer sunny skies, high temperatures, and a warm sea breeze overhead, you’ll want to visit Myrtle Beach in May through September.

During this late spring to the early fall season, the temp in Myrtle Beach is around 85℉ during the day and in the mid-60s at night. From late fall to early spring, temperatures in Myrtle Beach will range from lows in the 30s to highs in the mid-60s.

Do keep in mind, Myrtle Beach’s hurricane season runs from about June through November. While the summertime weather may be pristine, always keep an eye on the weather forecast and heed any hurricanes and tropical storms warning

Best Time to Visit South Carolina Myrtle Beach: Smallest Crowds

Yearning to visit Myrtle Beach when all the crowds have gone home, and you can have the beach all to yourself? Although the weather may not be super warm or sunny, there’s nothing better than sitting on the beach alone and soaking it all in.

Plus, with fewer tourists, you’ll be able to experience Myrtle Beach attractions and entertainment districts without bumping and shoving your way through a crowd unlike Myrtle Beach in June.

If you prefer to avoid the crowds, try visiting during the early weeks of September. Most families will have gone home and back to school, leaving you with ample room to lay out on the beach.

Another slow season is early spring. However, as the season progresses, spring breakers begin to descend upon Myrtle Beach as well. While the crowds won’t be at their Myrtle Beach peak season summer levels just yet, keep in mind you may have to share space with college students trading midterm exams for the beach

What is the Cheapest Month to Go to Myrtle Beach?

If you’d rather go when hotel rates and other prices are at their lowest, the best time to go to Myrtle Beach South Carolina is in the off-season. From late fall to early spring, you’ll take advantage of extreme discounts on hotels, shows, and attractions.

However, since this arguably is the worst time to visit Myrtle Beach for beach-worthy weather, plan to spend time exploring Myrtle Beach’s plethora of entertainment and shows. Although some shows may limit their performance times during the Myrtle Beach off-season, you’re still in for a world-class performance featuring renowned entertainment! If you visit around Christmas time, you can also take advantage of the holiday shows in Myrtle Beach.

Another way to save money, no matter what time of year you go, is to bundle your Myrtle Beach attraction and show tickets with your hotel or condo reservation.

Psst.. wondering what is the fastest way to Myrtle Beach? If you’re interested in pinching pennies, the fastest way may not always be the cheapest. Weigh out the pros and cons of driving vs flying!

High Season: Attraction Availability

Since many of Myrtle Beach’s activities are based around gorgeous summer weather, certain attractions and restaurants may not be open during off-peak times of the year.

If you aim to visit in the late fall, winter, or early spring months, keep this in mind as you organize your travel plans.

Fortunately, Myrtle Beach has a variety of attractions open year-round including:

And, you can’t forget about the shows. Reserve your tickets for these shows performing all year long at Broadway at the Beach:

When it comes to the best time to visit Myrtle Beach, you really can’t go wrong with all these things to do!

Looking to check out other South Carolina attractions? Wondering what is the distance between Myrtle Beach and Charleston South Carolina? It’s a relatively quick drive, you’ll spend approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes in the car.

So, What is the Best Month to Go to Myrtle Beach?

All this said, the absolute best time to visit Myrtle Beach is June through August. You’ll enjoy the full Myrtle Beach experience, soak up the summer sun, and catch a few waves all in the course of a single day. Another positive is the summer season in Myrtle Beach is the high season for events such as the Horry County Fair!

Of course, vacation costs will be at their highest during this time of year. But, if you plan ahead and budget accordingly, you’ll be able to easily determine how much it’ll cost to go to Myrtle Beach. Plus, it’s also easy to organize a Myrtle Beach budget beach vacation!

Although, if you really want to take advantage of the lowest rates, visit in September for fantastic weather and prices. Remember to keep a watchful eye on the weather forecast, though!

No matter when you decide to go to Myrtle Beach, you’re in for a great time!

The golf capital of the world is getting a PGA event. The Dunes Golf and Beach Club will host the first ever PGA Tour event on May 9-12, 2024. This historical event will be the first major professional golf tournament to the Grand Strand in 24 years.

Dunes Golf and Beach Club is a Robert Trent Jones designed course which is consistently ranked among the top 100 courses in the nation.

The event will be part of the PGA Tour 2024 FedExCup Regular Season schedule and will feature a purse of $3.9 million with 300 FedExCup points awarded to the champion.

The Myrtle Beach Classic will be seeking 800 volunteers to help facilitate this 4 day event. To Register as a volunteer or get more information go to the 2024 Volunteer Interest Page

For more information about the Myrtle Beach Classic.

As you prepare to list your home on the market, you’re likely facing two of the most common questions home sellers ask — can I get more money for my house if I remodel? And if so, how do I decide what to remodel before selling?

To untangle this conundrum, HomeLight asked top real estate agent MaryBeth Harrison of Dallas, Texas for her expert advice on which projects are worth doing.

Harrison advises sellers that buyers are touring houses hoping to see themselves living there. While there are some well-seasoned buyers who will wonder when the roof was last replaced or how run-down the HVAC system is, most buyers will simply be searching for a move-in ready space.

Many of these projects have great return on investment, but they also may not be the flashy changes you’re thinking of. That said, Harrison estimates that some of her clients have added $25,000 to $50,000 to their home sale price by following these tips!

So here are 9 renovations to tackle — without much hassle — before you list, plus advice on when to let a dated house sell for what it is.

1. Paint neutral, uniform colors

Paint is one of the easiest and most effective ways to change the look and value of your home. Because buyers are trying to picture themselves living in your home, Harrison recommends sticking with neutral colors throughout. There’s a reason why model homes use lots of white and beige, she says: “so that buyers can see a blank canvas.”

“It’s fine when there’s an accent wall or whatever, that’s different,” Harrison advises. “But when every room’s a different color… that’s cheap to fix with paint.”

While your children’s rooms might work in the bright greens and pinks they’re currently painted in, not every buyer has children. And for that matter, some buyers with children still might not want pink and green rooms.

Painting your interior is a fairly simple renovation to your house, and while buyers could do it once they move in, the project might seem much bigger to them. So hire a painter or get some tarps and do it yourself.

And this advice is consistent throughout all markets. In our Top Agent Insights Report, 57.83% of surveyed real estate agents advise sellers to paint their interior before listing. Wondering what color to grab at your local hardware store? Try agent-recommended “Agreeable Gray” by Sherwin-Williams, or “Revere Pewter” by Benjamin Moore. (In other words, embrace the greige.)

Average project cost: $954 – $2,893, depending on location, type of paint, and labor.

2. Rip up old carpet and keep flooring consistent

One of the more heavy-duty home renovation projects you can undertake before selling is replacing your flooring. This might not be necessary for your entire house: mainly, Harrison advises this renovation if you have several different kinds of flooring throughout your home.

“I walked into another listing and within my eyesight, there were four different types of flooring. That’s too much,” Harrison says. “So I think consistency is the goal here; let’s get a uniform look.”

Many buyers expect hardwood floors or premium vinyl nowadays, but just because you have carpet doesn’t mean you need to shell out a lot of money. The most important thing to do is get rid of any carpeting that is obviously dated. This includes shag carpeting, carpeting in odd colors, or very stained and worn carpeting. You can replace the carpeting with another, more neutral option.

But try to fix the most problematic areas that you can, or at the least hire a professional carpet cleaner.

Average project cost:
To install carpet: $789 – $2,794
To install hardwood floors: $2,493 – $6,754
To install vinyl floors: $800 – $2,900

3. Add some simple greenery

When it comes to selling a house, curb appeal is very real. It’s not often you get the big picture of your house from an outsider’s perspective. So Harrison recommends going across the street and really taking a look at your home’s exterior. Ask yourself: Is it inviting? Would you want to buy this house?

Harrison advises adding shrubs or other greenery before listing. If you don’t have much of a green thumb, you can also opt for foliage in potted plants.

“During winter, of course, everyone’s yard is dead, and I get that,” Harrison explains. “But especially in the spring and fall, put some color out there even if it’s just in pots, just to give me something inviting.”

Average project cost: As low as $20 for potted plants, as high as several hundred dollars for shrubs.

4. Perform a pre-inspection and fix any small issues

Typically, inspectors perform their routine inspections when a seller has accepted a buyer’s offer, but before the deal is finalized. This allows the buyers to learn about any major fixes that the property needs. They can also negotiate with the seller about the purchase price depending on how serious the fixes are.

To save yourself future negotiations and work, take a good look around the interior and exterior of your house and search for any imperfections, such as rotted wood, water damage, and electricity problems. Some of these problems might be easy to fix, while others might require a professional. You don’t have to fix every single thing, but being proactive certainly helps.

“So let’s try and get rid of some of that conversation before it even starts,” Harrison says. “I think people sometimes just don’t even walk around their house very often.”

Average project cost: $0 for a self-inspection, about $400 for a formal pre-inspection.

5. Make your kitchen bright and white with paint and new hardware

Harrison likes to look at model homes to see what’s currently selling. One of the things you’ll see a lot nowadays in model homes is sleek, white kitchens. They often have a wide open feel to them, with light-colored countertops and backsplashes. The cabinets are typically white, but can also be a matte color like forest green or cerulean.

Getting all new cabinetry is a huge hassle, but painting can be a quicker fix. Keep a monochromatic color scheme in mind and opt for a white paint if you have other colors throughout your kitchen. Take off the hardware before you paint, and consider replacing it with matte black fixtures or minimalistic hand-pulls.

“What the buyers are looking for today is white and clean, they just want clean,” Harrison advises. “It doesn’t all have to be stark white. But they just want a clean palette.”

Average project cost: $382 – $1,064, depending on equipment and labor, plus $2-$20 for each piece of hardware.

6. Replace dated countertops and appliances

The kitchen is one of the most important parts for a home, so here’s another renovation you might want to undertake. Dated appliances and countertops are two big red flags for buyers. Replacing countertops often seems like a hefty and expensive task, and can drastically change the look of your kitchen.

Similar to cabinets, buyers are looking for a bright, monochromatic look. Harrison advises against the brown and multi-colored granite that has been popular within the last 15 years or so. If you’re going to go new, she advises a gray or white countertop made of granite, marble, or quartz.

You can also opt for butcher block countertops for a contemporary feel. They often come at a cost-effective price, too.

However, if your entire kitchen is fairly dated, Harrison recommends holding off on the kitchen renovation. New countertops will stand out like a sore thumb against old cabinetry, flooring, and appliances. Ultimately, these upgrades won’t get you your money back.

“[A client] put the granite counter tops on … but they left the old, white appliances,” Harrison describes. “So now, it’s just glaring how old those appliances are, right? Because you’ve got an updated kitchen to a point.”

Average project cost: $40 – $100 per square foot for new countertops depending on material, and $1,360 – $19,050 for appliances depending on brand.

7. Hire a professional cleaner for your bathroom

Oftentimes, it’s things like dirt, grime, and mold that we grow desensitized to in our own house. But a buyer walking in won’t know what to expect, and will definitely see every inch of mildew in your bathroom. Because it’s one of the wettest areas of the house, it’s also one of the dirtiest.

Harrison recommends doing a very thorough cleaning of your bathroom(s), or hiring a professional cleaner to do so. It’ll make a difference to buyers during your tours. If you’re not sure you need it, ask yourself: do you know what color your grout originally was?

Average project cost: $0 for self-clean with already-owned supplies, or $70 – $85 for a professional.

8. Replace old tile and linoleum, or paint what you can’t replace

Bathrooms, like kitchens, can be sore spots for buyers. They quickly get dirty, have high use, and are easily outdated. Harrison says there’s nothing wrong with leaning into a true vintage bathroom, but to try to clean up some of the tile where you can.

Many older bathrooms have tiled baths and showers with small, individual tiles, often in funky colors like pinks, reds, blues, and purples. Retiling a shower can be a long, tedious job that often requires a professional. But painting over that tile is a very acceptable way to bring your bathroom into the 21st century.

“It’s not my favorite choice to repaint a bathroom tile, but I’ve had clients do it and it comes out really nice,” Harrison says. “They take that vintage tile that was purple or pink or whatever — they just paint it over white. And at least it deals with the problem.”

Average project cost: $15-50 per gallon of paint, or $1,000 – $3,000 for retiling.

9. Cut down on mess and unnecessary items

Home stagers can be expensive and time-consuming. Know that you don’t have to stage your home before you list, but there are some things that you can do before your photos and before any tours or open houses to keep your place looking its best.

Harrison recommends taking down some of your decorations so the house still looks lived in but not too personal. Remove any small appliances from the kitchen counters, or any extra furniture that makes it awkward to walk around. Find a place in your house like a basement or garage where you can keep all the extra stuff until it’s time to move, or until you need it again.

“The home may not be updated — and I’ve sold plenty of homes that needed everything — but they looked nice. When you walked in, it was clean, and it was open,” Harrison explains. “A buyer could start imagining what it would look like when they moved in.”

Average project cost: $0

Contact Saltwater Grande Realty to learn more about selling your home, and what changes you should make prior to listing.

Source: “What to Remodel Before Selling Your Home: 9 Light-Lift Projects,” HomeLight.com (Nov. 1, 2021)

South Carolina Good Life Initiative

from the South Carolina REALTORS®

The South Carolina Good Life Initiative is a project of the South Carolina Realtors® (SCR) created to raise awareness about quality of life concerns in South Carolina. We conducted a survey in January 2020 to determine what South Carolina Realtors® are most concerned with when it comes to quality of life. The survey results showed the top three areas of concern are population growth, affordable housing and public safety.

SCR is committed to addressing concerns about affordable housing and working with local communities and elected officials to develop a solution.