Dallas-Fort Worth is a good place to live. The economy is strong, the business climate is favorable, growth and innovation are evident, people are friendly, and newcomers are welcome in the community.

The housing market is also strong due to new construction and reasonable interest rates. But with a growth in demand, the number of new homes available dwindles. So, if you’re looking for a home, would you consider a fixer upper?

The Bad News Is . . . Well, Is There Bad News?

Despite a healthy housing market and a tradition of relatively fast sales in “move-in ready” properties in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, the prospect of taking on a home improvement project, particularly prior to or in conjunction with a move, strikes fear into the hearts of many a buyer. However, such a project may just offer an opportunity to procure the perfect dream house. With a few simple “fixes,” many homes can be quickly, easily, and economically enhanced.

During times when the housing market is depressed, fixer upper jobs are usually undertaken by the sellers in order to promote a sale. However, in a strong market, when some older properties are in need of major renovation and others need only minor cosmetic updates, many sellers are willing to offer their homes at discounted prices in order to avoid the hassle of remodeling. That’s good news for buyers.

Imagine a New Look

Visualize how a new entry door might add to the exterior of the house. Simply repainting a front door battered by the elements and bleached by the sun could take years off the “face” of your potential new home.

While shifting North Texas soils can cause unwanted foundation problems, some cracks, such as those in brick walkways or pool decking, can easily be repaired. If you love the features of the home, but the pool is ugly or damaged from use, it can be quickly resurfaced.

If the floor plan suits the way your family lives, but the carpet is faded from the bright Texas sun, it can be quickly replaced before you move in. A new carpet is one of the easiest improvements you can make.

Overlook the “Small Stuff”

When looking for a new home, there are some things that should not scare you. Here is a short list of items you can easily change or replace to completely alter the look and feel of the home:

• Interior paint
• Cabinet pulls and knobs
• Doorknobs and locksets
• Light fixtures and ceiling fans
• Entry door and decorative shutters
• Entry lighting, house numbers, and mailbox

If you can look upon your home search as an adventure rather than a chore, you may just find a diamond in the rough. Then you can begin the task of polishing it and creating the perfect setting for you and your family to enjoy.

If any part of the task is daunting, be assured that there are numerous professionals in the Dallas-Fort Worth area ready to assist you. Decorating and design consultants frequently offer reasonable hourly rates, and reputable handyman companies are available for small tasks. Your real estate agent should be able to assist you with suggestions and recommendations.

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