It’s no secret that home improvement projects can add tremendous value to your home. But where do you start? This article outlines five home improvement projects that can help you increase your return on investment, whether you’re looking to put your house on the market soon or just wanting to make the most of your current property.
Kitchen Renovation: The kitchen is often considered the “heart” of a home, often representing the “family center,” and the kitchen also provides the biggest chance for a return on investment. From new hardware and fixtures to a full-blown remodel, adding a sleek, modern kitchen can make your home more comfortable while adding substantial value. An effective kitchen remodel should take into account the design needs of the space, but should consider practicality and efficiency through the use of the latest appliances.
Bathroom Makeover: On the outside it may seem like a small change, but updating your bathroom can add a huge value to your home. Bathroom remodels often have a quick return, and if tastefully done, a classic bathroom can be a timeless addition to any home. A well-executed bathroom renovation should consider the size of the space, the style of the accents, and the best way to maximize light and storage.
Finish the Basement: Finishing the basement is a great way to add extra living space to your home without adding extra square footage. Part of a finished basement should be dedicated to activities, such as a game room or home office to maximize functionality. While doing this, it’s also important to add proper lighting for each area and to invest in waterproofing the basement before anything else.
Update Exterior Siding: The exterior of a home is the first impression of the property and contributes a great deal to curb appeal, giving maximum return on investment. If you’re looking to give your home a facelift, updating siding is an effective way to make some short-term improvements. There are a variety of siding options to choose from, but it’s important to choose a material that’s both attractive and durable.
Upgrade Flooring: Flooring is often overlooked, but a great upgrade can really jazz up a space. Whether you decide to go with hardwood, laminate, or tile – choosing the right type of flooring to fit the style of your home is crucial. Investing in new flooring can be beneficial in the long run, as it’s a low maintenance and highly desired feature.
Freshen Up Interior Paint: To quickly give a room a new life, consider giving the walls a fresh coat of paint. For a more modern look, consider neutral colors as a blank palette or brighter hues for a splash of color. When painting, it’s important to keep in mind the size of the room, the amount of natural light in the space, and the furniture that will fit.
Landscaping: A well-maintained lawn and garden can be an aesthetic addition to your house. Adding shrubbery and trees is a great way to spruce up the exterior and provide extra coverage for privacy. Also, plan to add long-lasting, low-maintenance plants and flowers to make the garden look lush and inviting.
Replace Outdated Windows: When windows start to appear foggy and inefficient, it’s time for an upgrade. Not only can new windows bring the outside world into your home, they also increase insulation, protect against the elements, improve air quality, and decrease energy bills. Replacing windows is a good investment for anyone looking to add value to their home as well as the environment.
Increase Curb Appeal: Your home’s exterior has a big impact on first impressions, so keep your front door and porch area tidy with a good power wash. To further enhance the look of the property, add some potted plants or fresh flower arrangements and consider hanging a welcome sign to add a bit of welcome charm.
Install Security Features: One way to increase the value of your home is by adding security systems to your home. Security systems vary in type and cost, but having one can provide peace of mind while also improving the resale value of your home. Some important systems to consider investing in are alarm systems, motion sensor lights, and surveillance cameras.
Invest in Smart Home Technology: Smart home technology is an increasingly popular option for improving home security, automation, and energy saving. Whether you opt for voice-activated door locks or a sophisticated automation hub, smart home technology will add convenience and increase the value of your home.
Build an Outdoor Kitchen: When it comes to outdoor living, nothing speaks luxury like an outdoor kitchen. From grills and fireplaces to sinks and refrigerators, installing an outdoor kitchen is the perfect way to bring indoor cooking to the outside. This addition provides an impressive way to entertain, adding value to both your home and lifestyle.
Improve Energy Efficiency: Investing in energy efficient technology can add an incredible amount of value to your home. From new insulation to solar panels, updating your house to sustain energy standards is a great way to reduce energy bills and get a return on investment as soon as possible. Not to mention, improving energy efficiency is beneficial for the environment.
Create a Backyard Oasis: Creating an outdoor oasis in your backyard is a great way to take advantage of the outdoors and add value to your home. Whether it’s setting up a hot tub, installing a pool, or creating an outdoor seating area – a backyard oasis allows you to enjoy nature in the comfort of your own home.
Install a Deck: Adding an outdoor deck provides you with a great entertaining space for family and friends. Decks come in a variety of sizes and materials, so there’s one that will fit any home and budget. Investing in a deck allows you to enjoy the outdoors in a private and comfortable space.
Covering these five home improvement projects is a start to increasing the value of your home. Just take the time to evaluate which projects are right for you and your budget. With careful research you can be sure to reap the rewards of your home improvements for years to come.
Add a Garden Walkway: Adding a path through your garden can be a great way to create an outdoor space and help show how much you care about your garden. Investing in a durable material that stands up to the elements and matches the rest of the landscape is key to ensuring a long lasting effect.
Create a Fire Pit: Installing an outdoor fire pit can provide beautiful ambiance and add warmth to your backyard oasis. When building a fire pit explore materials and shapes that match the rest of your backyard to create a cohesive outdoor space.
Install a Whole House Water Filtration System: Protecting your family from chemicals and toxins in the water is a top priority for many homeowners. To ensure the best water quality, consider installing a whole house water filtration system to catch impurities before the water even enters your home.
Install a Hot Tub: Hot tubs are a great way to unwind and relax after a hard day. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider building an outdoor hot tub or spa. Beyond just recreational use, hot tubs also have positive effects on mental and physical health.
Add a Pond: If you’re feeling creative, adding a pond is a great way to create a water feature to your backyard. When adding a pond it is important to research drainage and landscaping techniques to ensure the pond works with the environment and not against it.
Install Outdoor Lighting: Whether for safety or to show off your garden, outdoor lighting can go a long way. Consider using motion sensors with soft lighting to minimize energy costs and ensure safety. Additionally, investing in decorative outdoor lighting can be a great way to enhance the overall aesthetic of the property.
spruce up the Outdoor Living Space: If you are looking for a simple way to add value and make use of your outdoor living space, consider building a patio or pergola. To give your outdoor space the extra touch, add lattice work to the pergola and consider installing a ceiling fan with a light to cool off during the summer months.
Create an Outdoor Sauna: An outdoor sauna is a great way to relax in your backyard and add some distinction to your outdoor living space. Whether you opt for a traditional wooden model or a custom-built version, an outdoor sauna is sure to create an oasis you and your family can enjoy for years to come.
Install Solar Panels: Solar panel installation may be an expensive project upfront, but the long-term benefits make the cost well worth it. Not only does it help save the environment, but the savings on electricity can also be a major plus. Most solar panel systems are designed to tie into your existing electricity grid, and many will even produce extra energy that can be used to power the rest of your home.