Making some improvements to your home can be a great way to add value – whether you’re planning on selling in the near future or not. Whether you’re wanting to make some cosmetic changes or more structural ones, there are a number of things you can do to raise the value of your property. Here are 9 ideas that will increase your home’s value.
Start with the Basics
A fresh coat of paint can work wonders. It’s amazing what a difference this can make and it’s one of the cheapest ways to transform your home. Generally, you should stick with a neutral color throughout the home. If you want to add a bit more interest, try painting an accent wall a different color to make a statement wall. Just make sure you pick colors that complement each other well! If you already have recently painted the interior, you could paint your doors and trim a fresh coat of white paint and update the doorknobs.
Get Rid of Any Outdated Features
Old fashioned light fixtures, dingy wallpaper and tile work can date your property and make it feel less spacious. If you’ve got the time and money, consider replacing them with more modern alternatives. If you have dated kitchen or bathroom cabinets in oak or pine, but they are in good condition, you could paint them with a nice fresh light gray, white or whatever color you think would be best with your décor. And don’t forget to upgrade the hardware while you are at it.
More Space Means More Value
If you’ve got any spare rooms, now’s the time to turn them into something useful! You could convert an unused bedroom into a study or office or turn your basement into a playroom or movie theater room. If you have several unused bedrooms, why not create a dream walk-in closet and or master bath with space next to your current room. Just make sure you get any necessary permissions first. A lot of older homes do not have the luxury of a master suite. Creating one will add value to your home and elevate your master bedroom!
Create an ‘Entertaining Space’
Outdoor entertaining areas are becoming increasingly popular, so if you’ve got the space why not create one? It doesn’t have to be anything too fancy – just somewhere nice to relax with friends and family during those warmer months. Try adding a large deck or patio off your kitchen. Create an outdoor sitting area with a rug and chairs and pillows. Add a few plants and an area for serving food or a small outdoor bar for serving cold drinks.
Kitchen and Bathroom Renovations
Kitchen and bath improvements will always add value to your home – but they can also be quite costly so it’s important to ensure you’ll see a return on investment if you do decide to go ahead with them. If cash is tight, start small by replacing old taps and cupboard handles or by regrouting your tiles. A lot of homes could just use an update on flooring. It’s a great place to start as it really can make everything else in the room look better when it’s not competing with an outdated patterned floor design. A cohesive looks really begins with a neutral design plan and then you can customize with colorful towels or curtains that can easily be changed with the seasons.
Improve Your Curb Appeal
First impressions count! Spend some time sprucing up your front yard; mow the lawn, trim the hedges, plant some flowers, and repaint your front door if necessary. You could also install some new lights or fencing to really make an impact. Painting the extra of your home or replacing your old dingy roof will add value to your property especially if you plan to sell it in the future.
But Don’t Forget About Security
Many homeowners place a high importance on feeling safe in their home, so take steps to improve the security of your property by adding outdoor lighting around your home and installing a light with a sensor for your driveway so when you or an unwanted guest walks up to your door a bright floodlight turns on.
Think About Going Green
Energy efficient improvements not only help our environment but can also save you money on bills and help increase the value of your home. Some common changes include installing solar panels, double glazing windows and upgrading insulation – all of which will make your home more comfortable to live in, but also is a great selling point of value in the home.
De-Personalize and Declutter
After years of living in your home sometimes it just feels dated with older photos hanging on the walls, outdated artwork, or curtains that you enjoyed years ago, but now could use a refreshing look. This will make rooms appear larger and you’ll have a blank canvas to work with while redecorating with something new. Taking all of these steps should help elevate your property – and you can enjoy the new look and feel of your rooms whether you’re planning on selling up or not, the added value is in place.
These are just 9 ideas to get you started – but remember, when it comes to adding value to your home it’s important not go overboard! Only make changes that fit in with the style of your neighborhood and that won’t break the bank – after all, you don’t want to end up spending more than what your house is worth!
