Lets face it: Selling for a profitable price is no small feat, and no one is immune from getting the best deal possible. But that doesn’t mean you have to aim for a bargain. Home improvement projects have the potential to boost your home’s value and dramatically increase its sale price. So how do you take your home from lackluster to lukewarm? It’s all about creative and effective upgrades that make buyers drool.
Whether you want to do a complete remodel or simply spruce up your curb appeal, a home improvement project is the perfect way to get those dollar signs rolling. Here are some brilliant home improvement projects ideas and tips to increase your home’s value.
Prioritize Resale Value: Before you even swing the hammer, consider whether your home improvement project is something that will pay off when you go to sell. Resale value is everything, so equip yourself with the knowledge of what buyers in your area find desirable. Take time to research the competition.
Do It Yourself: Think you need to shell out piles of cash to get the job done? Think again! Do it yourself home improvement projects are becoming more popular. A DIY attitude could save you thousands in labor costs.
Update, Not Substitute: Adding a wall of windows and modern siding might sound like a good idea, such replacements may not add enough value for their costs. Instead of replacing, focus on doing something that will enhance the look and features of what’s already in place.
Skimping and Saving: Don’t go overboard on luxury. But don’t skimp to save money either. A lack of quality can be a total fleecing on your wallet when it comes to home improvement. Focus on smart materials that have lasting power and play up class over cost.
Upgrade Appliances: In today’s housing market, one of the top features buyers look for is energy-efficient upgrades. Outdated refrigerators, dishwashers, washers, and dryers cost significantly more in energy bills than newer, efficient models. Upgrading these appliances can save you a bundle and give you peace of mind at the same time.
Clean and Declutter: Home improvement doesn’t necessarily have to be about big projects. Pull up that old ratty rug and bring out the washer. Declutter your living spaces to make your home look airy and spacious. A neat and tidy living area can do wonders for the perceived value of your property.
Liven up your Landscaping: Poor landscaping is a major turnoff. Curb appeal is important not only for buyers, but all visitors. Start by replacing up that dull grass with some fresh green. Planting a few new trees or sprucing up the flower beds will instantly give the home a pleasant welcome.
Add an Extra Room: Open concept is the newest trend in home design, but that doesn’t mean every home needs to be wide open. If you want to add a bedroom, restroom, or study, you could be looking at a huge return on your investment.
Consider Plunging in a Pool: A pool can be a great way to entertain guests or simply enjoy the summer months in style. However, the way you maintain your pool can also determine your home’s future price tag. If you’re lucky to have the luxury of space, consider making a plunge pool, a small pool that is usually under 4 feet deep, which requires minimal maintenance and still looks attractive.
Nab Some Tax Breaks:Tax credits and deductions can really help you boost your resale value. If you’re doing a remodel, make sure you inquire into what tax breaks you might be eligible for.
Go Green: Investing in energy efficient upgrades, such as installing low-energy light bulbs or energy star rated windows, doors, and appliances, can not only cut down on your energy bills, but also make your home a more desirable asset to prospective buyers.
Those pesky pests: Pests are one of the biggest no-nos for home sellers. Maintain your home by getting rid of them as quickly as possible, and take preventive measures to make sure they don’t return in the future.
Luxuriate Your Home: Get yourself a luxury showerhead or spa bath – luxurious upgrades like these will pay for themselves in terms of a higher appraised value.
Refinish Surfaces: Refinishing your walls and flooring can give an old home a new sleek modern look. Applying a new layer of paint to the walls or having your carpets treated can make a world of difference when it comes to making your home shine.
Create New Storage Options: Thanks to the limited storage in the average home, having good shelving and storage solutions is a must. If your home has limited closet space, you could consider adding a walk-in closet or converting the garage into extra storage area.
Go for Good Lighting: Bright, airy homes always fetch a higher price. You can make the interior of your home look more spacious by adding skylights or light tubes. An outdoor living space or sun-deck also adds more value.
Add a Deck or Patio: If you have the extra yard space, add a deck or a patio to make your outdoor living space even more inviting. Not only will this impress potential buyers, but it’s also a great symptom of a well-built and maintained home.
Redecorate with a Splash of Color: Adding a bit of color to your home can be a great way to give it a more spacious and cheery look. Whether you want to add some bright colorful accessories or paint an accent wall to highlight the furniture, a splash of color can make your home appear brighter and more desirable.
Play Up the Privacy: Privacy is inherently desireable when it comes to a home purchase. If you don’t have fencing or privacy panels around your home, you may want to consider installing them. This will add a layer of security to your property while boosting its desiring value.
Pay Attention to the Details: For certain home improvements, it’s all about paying attention to the little details. Replace outdated door handles and locks, get rid of water stains and replace worn out switch plates. These seemingly small details can make a huge difference when it comes to buyer interest.
Install Luxury Interior Doors: Installing solid wood doors or decorative glass doors can add instant luster to your home’s interior and make it look like a million bucks. Buyers will be sure to take notice.
Upgrade the Floors: You don’t have to replace the floor in its entirety if there’s a lot of damage. Repair or refinish the existing floor to improve the look. Installing hardwood flooring can also add a luxurious touch and significantly increase the value of your home.
Invest in Smart Technology: It pays to stay connected. Installing features like an alarm system, automated lights, and online features for air conditioning systems can make your home an attractive asset that buyers won’t be able to ignore.
Buyers are always looking for the wow factor. Applying just a few of these home improvement ideas could significantly increase your home’s desirability and value. Now the only question is, which one to choose first?