It’s not uncommon for agents to see homes marketed as a “Grandma’s house.”
Less usual: homes marketed as a “Grandpa’s house.”
I’m not sure about other Realtors’ association with each type of home, but here are mine:
Grandma’s House:
—”Vintage” Kitchen with lots of old appliances (wall oven, mixer, etc.);
—Old(er) window treatments, floor coverings, and wallpaper;
—Wood paneling;
—Lots of pictures of grandchildren.
Grandpa’s House:
—Utility Room (typically in Basement) with a workbench;
—Garage with lots of “stuff” (stray engine parts, power tools, etc.);
—Wood paneling, especially in Den or Basement;
—Old(er) window treatments, floor coverings, and wallpaper.
Of course, the two lists overlap considerably, and are hardly mutually exclusive.
Cosmetic Improvements = Instant Equity
While dated, such homes usually boast “pride of ownership,” and are (very) well-maintained.
They also frequently spell opportunity for Buyers, who can create instant equity by doing such things as pulling up old carpeting and refinishing the hardwood floors underneath; skimcoating and then painting the wood paneling; swapping out old light fixtures for new; and removing old window treatments, wallpaper, etc.
Meanwhile, a home warranty is a good idea for any Buyer moving into a home with old(er) but still working appliances and mechanical’s.
See also, “Granny Flat?’ Try, “Boomerang Bungalow.“”
