Archive for June 21st, 2007

What to do with Small Rooms when selling your home?

Posted on June 21, 2007. Filed under: Home Improvement Ideas, Home Seller Tips |

The BIG dilemna. Southern California home builders go crazy when building new homes trying to capture the interest of large families and couples who will be caring for aging parents. In order to maximize the number of bedrooms they skimp on room size. If you live in Aliso Viejo, Tustin Ranch, Irvine, or Ladera Ranch you know what we’er talking about! Don’t worry!  If you have small rooms you can still get top dollar for your home if you decorate sensibly.

First, decide if you’re going to showcase the room as a bedroom or other space. Small rooms should NOT be used as an office/guestroom. Pick one or the other.

Next, if you’re making the room a bedroom put in a twin size bed. Possibly with a trundle that tucks away and can be pulled out for multiple visitors. Add a small nightstand and skip a large dresser. Floor space is key! If you’ve got it the room looks bigger. Make sure the bed is positioned to maximize the space and not cut off the room.

If you are displaying the room as an office or other work space buy smaller scale furniture. A big oversized desk will dwarf the room. There are furniture stores that specialize in small spaces and you will be able to find pieces that will work. Try IKEA or Plumbers, right here in Orange County. Take measurements of the room before you go shopping to avoid buying too large. Be realistic. Another great idea is to install closet organizers to store your work related supplies. California Closets is Great. The more the room looks like an office the better chance you have that the buyers will see the advantage of the space. With gas prices on the rise a home office is a fantastic idea!

Last, keep the decorating simple!! No large print patterns, keep the paint neutral and minimal artwork on the wall. Clean lines help the room appear larger.

With the right planning your small spaces can mean BIG dollars.