There are a few updates you can make to your home that will give your property a facelift without breaking the bank. Your home is probably one of your biggest investments, so you’ll want to make improvements that increase the value of your home before you sell it. There are a few ways to do this without spending too much time or money.

Spruce Up Outdoor Areas

Make your outdoor space beautiful and inviting to entice buyers to walk through your door. You can do simple things like planting colorful flowers and low maintenance plants. Outdoor light fixtures are another way to add more appeal to your home. Your outdoor space makes a difference, whether it’s a tiny patio or a big yard. If your deck or patio needs repair, now is the time to get it done. Be sure to keep the trees, bushes, and grass well trimmed. Read how to optimize your outdoor living space here.

Paint, Paint, Paint

One of the best returns on investment is adding a fresh coat of paint to your walls, doors, and windows. This is a great way to brighten things up. Try to avoid very dark colors and make it easy for buyers to visualize themselves living in your home. Color trends come and go, but neutral colors are generally appealing to more buyers. Let’s not forget about the exterior! Power wash the exterior first and then decide if you need a new coat of paint or some touch ups. It’s a great idea to paint your front door, especially if it’s older.

Update Hardware

From doorknobs, handles, and hinges to light switch covers and fixtures, updating the hardware in your kitchen and bathroom makes a big difference. Install new appliances in your kitchen if they are too outdated, and you don’t need to buy the most expensive replacements either. The same goes for the toilet and mirror in your bathroom. Be sure to check the seals and caulk around the cabinets, countertops, sinks, and tile and touch it up if needed.

Thinking about selling your home on Sanibel Island? Contact Phaidra McDermott today!

One of the best things about living on Sanibel Island is the ability to be outside year round. Florida’s warm weather allows you to extend your living space beyond the four walls of your home to include the outdoors as well. Keep reading for tips on how to optimize your outdoor living [...]

Moving into a new house can be an exciting experience. Once you’ve made the initial move, it can feel like there’s so much to do that you don’t even know where to start. Here are some tips to help you navigate your move and make it as smooth as [...]

Finding the correct real estate agent is the first step in finding the perfect home for you. Your agent is someone who champions for you during the buying process, so it’s important to know the correct questions to ask them in order to make the best decision for you. Below are five questions you should ask your realtor that many may not [...]

Sanibel and Captiva Islands are some of the most coveted places to live in Southern Florida. The unmatched natural beauty and tight knit communities of the area are what draw people in and keep them hooked. Once you visit these islands, you’ll never want to leave. And you don’t have to! But buying an island home takes special preparation - [...]

Part of the charm of the Sanibel and Captiva Islands is the ocean. Dining on the islands is one of our favorite activities. We’ve compiled a list of the best waterfront restaurants to enjoy a variety of cuisines from an incredible view.

Thistle Lodge

This historic beachfront restaurant features European, Asian, and Flordia style cuisine. The restaurant has a romantic atmosphere with a stunning view of the Gulf of Mexico.

Traditions on the Beach

Traditions on the Beach is a favorite of the locals and takes pride in using fresh, local ingredients to create Italian and Mediterranean dishes. Along with the amazing beachfront view, the restaurant features live music and dancing every night. 

Sea Breeze Cafe

Sea Breeze Cafe is within the Sundial Beach Resort & Spa. They serve a variety of sandwiches and salads, as well as signature entrees and fresh wild-caught seafood. You can enjoy your food inside or outside on a palm-lined patio overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.

The Mad Hatter

The Mad Hatter offers American Cuisine that changes seasonally and is always prepared from scratch. This elegant restaurant is known for its beautiful sunset dinners as it overlooks the ocean.

We hope you enjoy these suggestions. Contact Phaidra McDermott for all of your Sanibel Real Estate needs. 

While we are experiencing lots of changes and uncertainty happening all over the world, our needs to find a new home or sell a home still exists. Phaidra McDermott provides buyers and sellers with valuable resources and services. You can find the island home of your dreams in the Sanibel and Captiva [...]

Buying a home is a big commitment. In addition to being one of the largest financial transactions you’ll ever make, it’s also one of the most complex. This is why it’s so important to find a real estate agent you’re comfortable with, and one who’s experienced and knowledgeable about the local real estate market. Here are some steps to make your buying process go as smooth as possible:

Get Pre-Approved

There are lots of reasons to get pre-approved with a bank or lender. Most importantly, this will give you accurate information on how much home you can afford. Having a pre-approval letter shows sellers that you’re a credible buyer who’s ready to take action. You’ll be able to act fast once you find the right home.

Choose an Agent

You’ll want to find an agent who can offer expert advice and help you make the best decision when buying a home. Look for an agent who is up to date on the current real estate trends in the local market and who will provide you with the highest level of service. The most important thing is for you to feel confident and comfortable working with your agent. 

Start Your Search

• Use Phaidra’s custom search tool. This site features listing updates daily. Use the MLS search tool to customize your search with your criteria to find properties that meet your needs.
• Save your favorites: Sign up for an account and get email alerts about new listings that match your search criteria. It's free and you can opt out anytime.
• Browse Phaidra's recommended search categories, condominium communities, and single family communities.
• Use this mortgage calculator to estimate your monthly payments on a home mortgage loan.

If you’re thinking about buying a home on the Sanibel & Captiva Islands, be sure to contact Phaidra McDermott. She grew up on these beautiful islands and knows the ins and outs of the local real estate market like no one else!

Valentine's Day is the perfect day of the year to enjoy one of the amazing restaurants on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. The island has several places to enjoy the sunset and to listen or dance to live music. Below are a few of my favorites for you and your partner to enjoy a romantic holiday [...]

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