When it comes to attracting new real estate clients, nothing works better than making home upgrades and partial renovations. This is an expensive process, however, so you have to consider factors such as climate, client base, and current trends in aesthetics and design within your target market.
GreatBuildz is a free service that connects homeowners with reliable, pre-screened general contractors. If you’re planning on making a construction upgrade, we can help you find the best team for the job.
So, where do you start? From greener living to flexible workspaces, we’ll take you through seven upgrades that’ll enliven your property listings and bring new clients flocking to you.
But first, let’s take a look at the relationship between upgrades and listings.
How Do Upgrades Add Value to Listings?
Upgrades can significantly add value to house listings by enhancing the overall appeal and functionality of the property.
For example, a renovated kitchen with modern appliances, high-quality countertops, and ample storage space can attract potential buyers who value a stylish and functional culinary space. Upgraded bathrooms with luxurious fixtures, spacious showers, and elegant tile work can also make a significant impact. This type of bathroom provides a sense of comfort and relaxation and entices prospective homeowners looking to unwind at home. These upgrades not only enhance the visual appeal of the house but also offer practical benefits that can sway buyers in a competitive real estate market.
Furthermore, upgrades that focus on energy efficiency can be particularly attractive to potential buyers. Installing energy-efficient windows, insulation, and appliances can lower utility bills and reduce the home’s carbon footprint. This appeals to environmentally conscious buyers and provides long-term cost savings, making the property more appealing and desirable.
7 Brilliant Construction Upgrades
1. Energy-Efficient Upgrades
In Southern California where energy costs can be high, homeowners are increasingly interested in energy-efficient features. Highlight upgrades such as solar panels, energy-efficient windows, LED lighting, and smart thermostats help to reduce energy consumption, increase sustainability, and lower utility bills.
2. Outdoor Living Spaces
Southern California’s mild climate makes outdoor living spaces highly desirable. Consider upgrades like a patio or deck with comfortable seating, a built-in barbecue or outdoor kitchen, and landscaping that creates a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Showcasing these upgrades can attract clients who want to maximize their enjoyment of the beautiful weather.
3. Open Floor Plans
Many homeowners in Cali’s hot south are drawn to open and spacious interiors. Offer upgrades that involve removing walls to create an open floor plan. This can help create a seamless flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas, making the space feel larger and more modern. It also creates flow and a sense of coolness, especially if light colors are used throughout.
4. Sustainable Materials
Promote the use of sustainable and eco-friendly materials in remodeling projects. For example, suggest using reclaimed wood for flooring or cabinets, low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints, and recycled materials for countertops. This can attract clients who prioritize environmentally conscious choices—something that’s becoming increasingly prevalent.
5. Smart Home Technology
Southern California homeowners often appreciate the convenience and efficiency of smart home features. Consider upgrades such as smart lighting systems, automated window shades, integrated home security systems, and voice-controlled assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Home. Highlighting these technologies can appeal to clients looking for modern, tech-savvy homes.
6. Outdoor Landscaping and Water Features
The natural beauty of the region extends beyond its beaches. Emphasize upgrades like drought-tolerant landscaping, native plants, and water-efficient irrigation systems. Additionally, consider suggesting the installation of a water feature, such as a small pond or fountain, to enhance the aesthetic appeal and create a tranquil outdoor ambiance.
7. Home Office or Flexible Workspace
With the rise of remote work and flexible schedules, many homeowners in California are seeking dedicated home office spaces. About 64% of Californians in households with annual incomes of $150,000 or higher said at least one household member had worked from home some portion of the week.
Highlight upgrades that include converting an underutilized area into a functional home office with built-in storage, ergonomic furniture, and good natural lighting. This can attract clients who value a comfortable and productive workspace within their homes.
Less is More: Choosing the Right Upgrades
While the seven construction upgrades listed above are all highly desirable and can add value to house listings, there’s more to bringing in new customers. It’s essential to consider your specific target market, budget, and property characteristics before deciding which upgrades to prioritize. Not every upgrade will be suitable for every property. Choosing wisely can ensure that you maximize your investment and attract the right clients.
Here are some considerations to help you make informed decisions:
Climate and Energy Efficiency
In Southern California, energy-efficient upgrades are particularly attractive due to high energy costs and lifestyle preferences. Where feasible, consider prioritizing energy-efficient windows, solar panels, and smart thermostats over all others. These upgrades can provide long-term cost savings and appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
Property Size and Layout
If you have limited space, focus on upgrades that optimize functionality and create a sense of openness. Open floor plans can make smaller spaces feel larger and more modern. And flexible workspaces can cater to the increasing demand for home offices.
Regional Appeal
Take advantage of the mild climate and emphasize outdoor living spaces like patio or deck upgrades, landscaping, and water features. These upgrades are highly sought after in Southern California, where residents value the ability to enjoy the beautiful weather year-round. However, not all areas share the same pristine conditions. If your property falls in the shade of a mountain, other features may become a priority
Attracting the Clients You Want
This forward-thinking approach to remodeling and upgrades should be reflected in your marketing. You’re appealing to a target audience that cares about curating a certain type of modern lifestyle. This makes them particularly aware of marketing and trends. Use this to your advantage by engaging with your target market online in a way that appeals to them.
In digital marketing, showcasing the seven upgrades that attract homeowners in Southern California can be a powerful strategy to secure your desired target market.
First, leverage social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook to visually highlight energy-efficient upgrades, outdoor living spaces, and sustainable materials. Post captivating images and videos that showcase solar panels, beautifully designed outdoor kitchens, and eco-friendly materials, emphasizing their benefits and how they align with the Southern California lifestyle.
Then, use good real estate website builders to ensure you can keep your site updated and continually optimize your content. In addition to engaging images, you can incorporate keywords related to open floor plans, smart home technology, and landscaping features. Create informative and engaging articles that discuss the advantages of open layouts, the convenience of smart home features, and the beauty of Southern California-friendly landscaping.
Lastly, consider partnering with influencers or local bloggers with a strong presence in the Southern California region. Collaborate with them to create sponsored content that showcases your construction upgrades. Their influence and followership can help amplify your message and reach a broader audience interested in remodeling their homes.
A Last Word
So, now you have seven powerful construction upgrades that’ll grab the attention of the clientele you want to attract. Use discretion when implementing these upgrades. It’s obviously true that any upgrades you make to a property should add value without compromising profit.
Now get started on these upgrades before your clients find a different home!
GreatBuildz is a free service that matches homeowners with pre-vetted, reliable general contractors. We can help you find the best general contractors for your construction upgrades.
Feel free to contact us at 818.317.3567 or visit our website.
