Have you ever wondered how many homes are bought and sold in Minnesota each day? While we don’t have the exact number, I can tell you, it’s a lot! People are always buying and selling homes, whether for relocation, to upsize, to downsize, or anything in between. Yet regardless of the reason for selling, one thing remains constant—the need to ensure your home has the proper improvements so that not only will you love where you live, but your home has the best possible value if and when the time comes to sell.
And in this crazy world of real estate, few names resonate with the blend of expertise, innovation, and client-centered service quite like Melissa Clawson, the driving force behind Clawson Home Group. With over a decade of experience under her belt and a year into her venture with eXp Realty, Melissa has become a source of knowledge and inspiration for homeowners looking to elevate their property's value, whether for the long haul or a swift sale.
The Philosophy of Home Improvement
At the heart of Melissa's advice is a simple truth: not all home updates are created equal. The path you choose should mirror your intentions—crafting a personal haven or staging a market-ready asset. "If you're nesting for decades, indulge in what you love," Melissa advises. "But if it's about investment, appeal to the broader market."
Key Strategies to Elevate Home Value
Are you looking to sell your home? Consider these recommendations from Melissa on where to start and where to spend your money.
-
Hardware Updates: A minor change with major impact. Melissa shares the power of cohesive hardware to transform a space. "Matching doorknobs, cabinet handles, and light fixtures can significantly enhance your home's aesthetic," she points out. And not only is matching important, but if those hardware items are outdated, now is the time to update and modernize.
-
Maintenance and Repairs: Don't overlook the basics. "Living with a broken fixture isn't just inconvenient—it's a red flag to potential buyers," Melissa warns, urging homeowners to embrace their inner handyman.
-
Bathroom Renovations: The crown jewel of home improvements. Melissa places a premium on the primary bathroom, recommending updates from vanity refreshes to luxurious tiles, turning this private space into a selling point.
-
Garage Door Replacement: An exterior facelift with function. "A carriage house-style garage door adds a touch of elegance," Melissa notes, enhancing both curb appeal and perceived value. And while you’re in the process of replacing that garage door, consider a fresh coat of paint for the perimeter. The harsh Minnesota weather conditions can wreak havoc on your exterior paint.
-
Kitchen Remodeling: A study not too long ago suggests that Americans spend at least 67 minutes daily in their kitchen. That’s a lot of time when you think of it. As such, the heart of the home deserves attention. "Invest in your kitchen as early as possible," she suggests, advocating for natural wood tones and hardware updates to rejuvenate this central space.
Beyond structural enhancements, Melissa champions a clutter-free and clean home environment, not just for its marketability but for the well-being it brings to its inhabitants. In fact, it’s well-known that clutter can decrease your productivity, increase your stress, make you feel more isolated, and even impact your sleep.
By regularly decluttering your home, not only can you help yourself feel better, but you can ensure your home is ready to list when you’re ready. So, it’s a win-win situation!
Clawson Home Group's Approach
With a team of six dedicated agents, Clawson Home Group specializes in seamless transitions, offering specialty financing programs that cater to the unique needs of moving homeowners. "Our goal is to make each transaction smooth and profitable," Melissa states, reflecting on the group's commitment to education and client satisfaction.
“We have a specialty financing program for those selling their home and purchasing a new home. It’s a great way to maximize the two transactions and ensure you have the funds for a remodel at the time of closing,” she shares.
As for the housing market, Melissa shifts the focus from interest rates to inventory. "A healthy market thrives on available properties," she explains, reminding us of the lasting value real estate offers as an investment.
Are You Ready to Buy or Sell a Home?
For those looking to navigate the complexities of home improvement, buying, or selling, Melissa Clawson and her team at Clawson Home Group stand ready to guide you through. Their expertise, rooted in genuine care and strategic insight, promises not just a transaction but a journey toward maximizing your home's value and your satisfaction as a homeowner.
Melissa Clawson - Clawson Home Group
Melissa Clawson was raised in Eagan, and she currently resides in Minneapolis. She focuses on delivering personalized services and constant communication to keep her clients happy! Currently, she is licensed with eXp Realty and has taken on the responsibility of team lead at the Clawson Home Group. Originally coming from a career in education, she enjoys focusing her efforts on informing and teaching her clients about the entirety of the housing transaction. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, spending time with friends and family, and trying and reporting on new dishes and dining experiences throughout the Twin Cities Metro foodie scene. Her passions include volunteering with Boulder Options and Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.
The Clawson Home Group with eXp Realty has been serving the Twin Cities for over 11 years! They focus on creating an environment of meeting expectations for clients and constant communication to achieve everyone’s housing goals. The Clawson Home Group specializes in first time buyers, diversifying a real estate investment portfolio, and with families transitioning from home to home.
"If you're nesting for decades, indulge in what you love, but if it's about investment, appeal to the broader market."
