According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), home prices rose by 5.3 percent between 2016 and 2017. That's pretty fantastic compared to the historical annual average of 3%-4%. Add the fact that Realtor.com reported houses sold 8% faster in 2018 than they did in 2017 and you have one heck of a hot market. So, if you're thinking about selling your home during these busy summer months of 2019, as families are looking to buy between school years, then you're in luck!

But wait! Before you list your house, don't you want to take steps to make sure you get the absolute best price possible? It is true it takes money to make money, so don't be afraid to spend a little, just be sure to spend it in a way that pays you back multi-fold. Let's discuss 5 ways you can do exactly that.

1. Bring the feel of your home into the current era

You may like the feel of your 70s style home, but new buyers are going to be looking for something more modern. Still, your decor can be modified with simple touches to bring it into a modern-rustic or shabby chic look which appeals to the modern eye. Try removing wallpaper or popcorn ceilings and adding a few modern, color coordinated details and modern paint colors to spruce the space up a bit. Popcorn ceiling removal costs may range $1 to $3 per square foot and wallpaper removal costs may range 55¢ to $1.50 per square foot. Your paint project can range in price depending on whether you're a DIYer or you hire a professional.

2. Finish that Nagging To-do List

Now is the time to invest into a handyman. You'll pay yourself back and then some with the extra you make when you sell. Hire someone to finish all those maintenance tasks, small plumbing jobs, and touch-ups. You can expect good handymen to charge between $50 and $100 per hour.

3. Improve Your Curb Appeal

Call for estimates from landscape companies that can bring in colorful flowers, nice pots and planters, frame some areas with mulch, add in some nice borders and shrubs, mow and edge the lawn, and manage any brown spots. These are easy and affordable tasks. It may be simplest to hire an expert, but if you have a green thumb, you can even do it yourself. Here's a site which can help you plan your budget: Tips for Landscaping Your Lawn on a Budget.

4. Improve the scent

Odors can be overlooked by those accustom to living with the scent of their pets, frequently used cooking spices, smoke, etc. Pests can also not only be unsightly, but have a scent of their own. Contact a pest remediation company to get rid of all seen and unseen pests. Then, use professional services like carpet cleaning and house cleaning to get rid of those persistent odors. And, yes, it's true that baking cookies or a pie before an open house event can indeed make your home more attractive to the visitors, but lightly scented candles can work just as well.

5. Update Your Bathroom(s)

A new tub and/or tile, a new vanity, a new mirror, a new toilet, new light fixtures, even new paint and bathroom mats can work wonders in presentation. It doesn't necessarily have to be pricey. If your bathroom seems really outdated and the project feels overwhelming, consider consulting with a bathroom remodeling expert. Bathroom remodeling projects can be difficult and we highly recommend expert help.

Most importantly, remember to choose an effective, licensed Realtor® as your selling partner. An experience real estate agent, as you will find with the Anne Nymark Team, will help you identify specific ways to improve the appeal and value of your home and will drive the perfect traffic to you through advertising and networking. Contact us and we can help you get started today.