A house can be an excellent investment, but only if you increase its resale value while you live in it. To do that, you’ll need to think about what home repairs, remodeling, or upgrades are well worth the effort and time.
A brand-new home or one that has already been lived in can always benefit from upgrades and renovations. Here are some home renovation projects that can increase your property’s value and add comfort and convenience to your life as a homeowner.
#1: Make Your Home More Attractive
The curb appeal of your home is your first chance to make a good impression. Home exteriors need to entice a prospective buyer to walk through the front door.
Make sure the existing landscaping is well-maintained. Consider planting flowers or repainting the front door if your yard appears dull compared to your neighbors.
Having made the exterior look good, it is time to go inside. If the bathroom and kitchen are outdated, they can keep a property from reaching its full value.
It’s estimated that a minor kitchen remodel recoups 81% of its cost in added value, compared to 53% for an upscale kitchen remodel. Minor kitchen upgrades include small projects like:
- Adding an island
- Increasing storage space
- Putting in a new backsplash
- Refinishing cabinets
- Updating light fixtures
The statistics are similar when it comes to bathrooms. A midrange remodel delivers a 70% return on investment, while an upscale remodel delivers 56%. Depending on your budget, you can choose from a variety of bathroom renovation projects, including:
- Adding storage space
- Installing new flooring
- Installing new sinks, showers, and toilets
- Painting and retiling
- Upgrading lighting
#2: Keep Your Home Low-Maintenance
A new furnace, water heater, or even the roof can ease buyers’ concerns about the house needing constant maintenance and help increase your home’s sale price. Improvements that make things easier to clean and maintain may also increase home value. Install hardwood floors instead of carpet or install vinyl siding instead of wood siding if you find carpet is easily stained.
#3: Make Your Home More Efficient
An energy-efficient home can increase its value significantly. Investing in double-paned windows, enhanced attic insulation, LED lighting, and energy-efficient appliances can increase home value and attract energy-conscious buyers. Find out where your home is wasting energy and which upgrades will save you the most money by contacting a certified energy auditor or your utility company.
#4: Increase Your Home’s Square Footage
The square footage of a property has a significant impact on its value. Buyers can compare similar homes based on their price per square foot. The value of greater space may not be officially recognized by an appraiser, but a buyer will likely notice.
You can make your house bigger by adding a room, but you can also finish your basement or build a deck to create additional living space.
#5: Make Your Home Smarter
Buyers want “smart” technologies that improve their safety in their new homes. A few of these devices are thermostats, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, surveillance cameras, and lighting.
Smart technology doesn’t always increase home value, but it does add appeal. Individuals who consider themselves to be “techies” will pay more on these items. These devices are usually easier and less expensive to install than roofs or bathrooms, and can usually be accomplished for under $1,000.
The best home improvement projects are those that offer the most benefits but can be difficult to prioritize and budget for. Remodel and renovate your home in a way that boosts rather than decreases the value if you eventually plan on selling. With these home improvement tips, you can determine which pursuits have the highest return on investment (ROI) so that you are not only improving your space for you and your family, but also for potential buyers in the future.
Interested In Selling Your Property?
Domain Realty offers specialized, full-time real estate agents who work exclusively with buyers and sellers in Naples, Florida. The result is a world-class value that comes with focus, experience, deep expertise, and a commitment to a proven and unique process that leads to results and has for years.
Our team is ready to discuss your residential real estate goals today. Call us at (239) 206-6577.