Putting off today what can be done tomorrow is something we’re all guilty of. But when it comes to selling your San Diego home, today’s millennial buyers don’t want to DIY … they want instant paradise.

Most likely, homebuyers have already seen the inside of the house through pictures on the internet, and the outside by driving through the neighborhood. The “wow” factor usually comes through personal interaction, which -- hopefully -- happens when you get the buyer through the front door.

Consider these upgrades to appeal to millennial homebuyers.

1. Outdoor Attraction

Curb appeal and outdoor living are big pieces to the puzzle. A well-maintained lawn is noticeable at first glance, but so is turf damage. A front lawn full of brown patches is a big turnoff -- same for the backyard, too. If the lawn is in bad shape, it may be time for a complete renovation. Having to tear out a lawn and start over is the last thing a new homeowner wants to do. Seller, this one is on you.

Promote the idea of enjoyable outdoor living with a well-built deck, patio, or porch. Repair or replace damaged cement, bricks, and asphalt -- today’s homebuyer doesn’t want to do it. And while you’re at it …

Fix the mailbox
Paint or stain shutters, railings, decks, doors, and the garage. (Painting a front door black may add as much as $6,000 to the selling price).
Replace house numbers
Update outdoor lighting fixtures

Outdoor add-ons to your San Diego property may include a backyard kitchen, built-in fire pit or barbecue, in-ground pool, and cabana. Nothing beats the California heat like a day poolside!

Add the costs of these small projects to your asking price, or consider it a part of doing business.

2. Fencing

Backyard privacy is a must for young homebuyers, and because millennials represent a large share of pet owners in the U.S, strong fencing is recommended for safety and security. Wood, iron, steel, and Plexiglas materials may enhance the property, but before starting on this project, check out the residential fencing laws in San Diego.

3. Indoors

Today’s busy lifestyles mean less time for DIY projects, so having the home ready for occupancy is truly a draw for millennials.

Formal dining rooms are a thing of the past. Hanging out in a large kitchen and open-area family room (with a big screen TV) is a plus for today’s homeowner. Can your kitchen be expanded into a TV room? Is it possible to tear down a wall or two? Open floor plans provide more entertainment space.

If you cannot change the structure of the home, consider upgrading older kitchen standards like refrigerators and ovens with new smart technology appliances.

Energy efficiency is key to a sellable home. Upgrade windows and insulation before putting the house on the market; it will add to the value in reduced heating costs.

4. Ceiling Fans, Carpeting and Flooring

Ceiling fans lower air-cooling costs. For a few hundred dollars (more or less), add fans in several areas of the house to increase air circulation. Spruce up floors with new carpeting. Remove old wallpaper and paint walls a neutral color (show the house as a place where the new owners can add their own touches).

5. Home Office

So many people are working from home these days -- if the house doesn’t have an office, you can create one with a few divider walls. Having a dedicated space to write, pay bills, store important documents, video chat, read emails and correspondence, view social media, and play video games is a huge plus for homebuyers.

Repurpose a bedroom, den, or basement area into an office that revolves around today’s technology. Houses must now have WIFI and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Homebuyers don’t care much about phone jacks or cable built into the house; they’re on mobile phones and streaming content through the internet. If the house is not “wired” for internet, WIFI, AI, and everything else, consult local providers of mobile and fiber optic technology.

Getting your San Diego home ready for the sales market is about impressing buyers to make bids. Appealing to the wants and needs of millennial home buyers is the first step to making the sale.

James Winston is a home stager and freelance writer. He enjoys upgrading homes with all the latest gadgets and improving landscapes.

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