Our bedroom in our 1911 built home is covered in wallpaper.

Pra31805172
by Pra31805172
Even the ceiling! What's the most effective way to update this prior to listing it for sale in the spring?

  12 answers
  • Johnavallance82 Johnavallance82 on Jan 05, 2018

    as to what will help it sell , before spending money that may not be nescessary. Call in Estate Agent now and ask their opinion

    • Pra31805172 Pra31805172 on Jan 06, 2018

      My partner is a general contractor. But the housing market is in a correction period right now. It's a good old home but we may not get what I paid for it 4 years ago. May have to cut our losses on that item.

  • GrandmasHouseDIY GrandmasHouseDIY on Jan 05, 2018

    If the wallpaper is on there good (meaning: not pealing anywhere) you can paint it.

  • Ken Ken on Jan 05, 2018

    The plaster in the ceiling is probably cracked, that is why they installed what is likely a heavy-duty oil cloth, not wallpaper. You could remove it and, using drywall finishing techniques, repair and skim coat the ceiling. This is a tough job and if it is not a skill you have you should hire a professional. Since you are not doing this for yourself, I don't think the return on investment is there.

    • Pra31805172 Pra31805172 on Jan 06, 2018

      Thank you, Ken. You are probably right. A big job. But would help resale value. At least freshen it up.

  • Listen to your real estate agent, it may be OK for where you live provided it is in good condition. It depends on what part of the country you live in. In other areas they would tell you to rip it all out and paint. I am not a fan of painting over wallpaper only because I have had to remove painted over wallpaper and it isn't easy, as a matter of fact, on a few houses, I ripped the walls out and installed new sheerock as it was more cost effective to do so.

    • See 1 previous
    • Got it! My dad was a GC and yes, it is a lot of work - at least you know what all each project entails and how hard or easy something may be. Maybe install new sheetrock in the main living areas so it looks reasonably updated? Save as much of your budget as you can for your new place. But don't hesitate to spend a few bucks if it will reap thousands in your pocket in return. It is a slippery slope sometimes. Wishing you the lots of luck!

  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on Jan 05, 2018

    I would not do anything unnecessary,clean ,fresh coat of paint ..talk to a professional

    • Pra31805172 Pra31805172 on Jan 06, 2018

      Thank you, Janet. I'm with you regarding the white paint. They put a complimentary border up near the top of the ceiling which is coming loose in places. It just isn't a nice clean looking space. And our bedroom is our sanctuary so I know it is for other folks too. But it's old school. Lol.

  • Mogie Mogie on Jan 05, 2018

    Is the pattern on the wallpaper dated? Does is have huge floral flowers or is is some other way unsuitable?

  • Pra31805172 Pra31805172 on Jan 06, 2018

    The wallpaper is a little dated. No big pattern but pink with pearlescent birds on it. Clearly feminine. We are all doing some neat things with finishes and updating here in Saskatchewan. Clean and neat, a little modern. Light fixtures are white with nickel or silver - lots of bright light.

  • 71729639726 71729639726 on Jan 06, 2018

    You can seal the paper as long as there is no tare's in it and then paint the walls and texture the ceilings. If you like that updated look.

  • Sjt29229935 Sjt29229935 on Jan 06, 2018

    Without seeing a picture, it is a little difficult to give an intelligent response. It may not be your taste, but a new owner might love it, especially if it goes with the 1911 style of the house. And, believe it or not, some people love wallpaper on the ceiling. DON'T paint it!! If the buyer has a clue about wallpaper removal it will give them pause because that is a nightmare. You said some of the wallpaper is coming loose. Get some wallpaper paste or Elmer’s white glue, put a dab or two under the loose areas and stick it back on the wall. There are small tubes of wallpaper paste you can pick up very reasonably at a hardware or big box store. Unless you see problems showing through the existing wall covering, I would definitely let sleeping dogs lie. Don't buy yourself more trouble and work, especially if that wallpaper was added to hide problems. You mentioned it was somewhat feminine with the pink and birds. Is it definitely a master bedroom or could you enhance the feminine aspect of that room and give another room the master bedroom aura? It may be perfect for a new owner with a daughter or even a single lady. Don't put a lot of money into redecorating if you are going to sell in the spring. Most new owners change what you put money into as soon as they move in. Maybe a new bedspread, throw pillows, vase with flowers and throw rug in neutral colors you can take with you would go a long way to updating and enhancing. That way the room will look fresh and new, plus, you can take the items with you and use in your new home and the money spent won't be lost. Just make sure your home is neat, clean and fresh smelling. Do call a real estate agent for advice in your area and situation. Good luck and much happiness in your new home!

    • Pra31805172 Pra31805172 on Jan 07, 2018

      I really appreciate your answer! What you are saying makes a lot of sense. Neat, clean and fresh smelling as well - those are key factors. Thank you! We will enjoy our new home.

  • Johnavallance82 Johnavallance82 on Jan 07, 2018

    I would still call in an Estate Agent before doing any work. He/She may say do nothing , as it won't make any difference to the price, on the other hand he/she may say strip and paint or suggest some other improvement instead . good luck.......

  • Ann Ann on Jan 07, 2018

    I agree about seekng a realtor’s advice. I would get three or four realtors’ advice who are familiar with the area.