There is no greater feeling than the one when you know that the value of your home has increased. Home improvement projects can help you achieve that by increasing the market value of your property, adding additional living space, modernising the décor and improving the home’s energy efficiency. But, how do you go about planning for home improvement? It’s easier said than done!
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! We’ve compiled this guide to help you out with planning for home improvement and other considerations that could affect your bottom line. Here are some tips to help you get started.
Plan Early
Planning for your home improvement accounting for the size of the project, your current budget, and all the legal ramifications for changes that you want to make, is essential. Give yourself enough time so that you have room to assess the best options that suit your needs.
Check For Potential Permits
Another important tip is to ensure that you get the necessary permits required for the project that you’ve planned. Depending on the country, state, or county regulations, the permits may vary. Make sure to consult a professional before you embark on your home improvement project.
Add Living Space
Is your family growing and do you need to add additional living space? This is a great option if you want to increase the value of your home and make more room for your loved ones. A new deck on your house or an extra room in the loft can provide your family with more functional living space and increase the overall value of your property.
Renovate The Kitchen
The kitchen is the main hub of the house and investing in kitchen remodelling can be a great option. It can help improve how the space looks and feels, as well as provide your more room to showcase your culinary skills. Plus, modernising your kitchen can also help make your family’s time in the kitchen easier, efficient and more enjoyable.
Modernise The Decor
When it comes to modernising your home decor, there are so many options that can make a difference. From repainting the walls, selecting new furniture pieces to changing the rugs and carpets, there are plenty of ways in which you can give your home a stylish modern update.
Switch To Energy Efficient Appliances
Switching to energy efficient appliances is the best way to lower your energy bills and help the planet. Such appliances are eco-friendly and help reduce your carbon footprint. In addition, they are also easier to maintain and have longer life spans, reducing the overall cost incurred in repairs.
Improve Insulation
Minor improvements such as adding better insulation can help reduce your energy bills and improve the overall home atmosphere. Additionally, it helps create a warm and safe environment in colder months, longer.
Review Your Utilities
Look at different utility providers and see if they offer a great deal which would benefit you in the long run. Switching from one provider to another can help save you quite a bit of money. You can also avail discounts when using off-peak times for electricity, heating, and cooling.
Check The Roof
Poorly insulated roofing can cause significant damage during colder months. Make sure your roof is properly insulated as it can save you a fortune in heating and cooling costs over the years.
Analyse Your Budget
Evaluate your budget taking into account the extra costs of materials, labour, and contractor fees. In addition, you may need to factor in the cost of borrowing and legal fees. This can help you understand the real financial impact of your home improvement project.
Engage A Contractor
Considering the complexity of certain home improvement projects, it is recommended to hire a certified contractor. Doing so can help you manage the project more efficiently.
These were a few important tips to keep in mind when planning for home improvement. That said, each one’s needs differ, and it’s important to understand your exact requirements before you start planning for a home improvement project. Going through professional help is usually the best bet when upgrading your home. With the right planning and knowledge, you can be assured that you’re making a reliable investment into your property.
Think green and look for energy efficient solutions. Installing solar panels, for instance, can reduce your electricity bills significantly over the years. Alternately, you could also install a water-saving device to cut back on your water bills.
Want to increase the security of your home? Consider home automation systems or video doorbells. You could also install security cameras around your home if you want to go the extra mile. There is no denying that the safety of the family should be the top priority and these are excellent investments.
One of the keys to pushing up the value of your home is to ensure that it’s energy efficient. A great way to achieve that is by adding double-glazed windows, thermal insulation, and other energy-saving improvements. Not only do these upgrades help lower your bills, but it can also add considerable value to your home.
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution to increase the value of your home, many opt to convert an existing space or use attic space to create an entirely new living area. This could be a new bedroom or an office space, depending on your needs.
Finally, investing in landscaping is an excellent option to add aesthetics and value to your home. Landscaping can make an old property look new while ensuring the existing vegetation retains its natural appeal.
Making changes to the outdoor space can also add a sense of privacy. Consider installing trees, fenced walls, decking, artificial grass, or wild bushes to your garden to help ACL your property. Make sure to create a plan with your local landscaper or gardening specialist before you proceed with potential changes.