Whether you’re planning to sell your home in one year or 10, it’s never too early to think about the overall value. Each change you make to your house affects the return on investment, so you want to make these changes wisely. Here are some key home improvement projects that will actually boost your house’s value.
1. Energy Efficiency
Home buying and selling are all about energy efficiency. Buyers are looking for efficient features to save money and help the environment. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to add efficiency within your budget. LED lights, quality insulation, low-flow plumbing, and double-pane windows can all keep energy bills in check. Be sure to focus on the attic as well. A quality radiant barrier can reflect 97% of heat transfer, making the entire home more efficient. However, investment features like solar panels can give your home’s value a significant boost if you have the money upfront.
2. Renovated Kitchen
The kitchen is the focal point in the home, so renovating this space can be helpful when you eventually sell. Keep in mind that you don’t need to design a luxury kitchen. Basic improvements like energy-efficient appliances, durable countertops, new flooring, and a fresh coat of paint can help your home sell. As a rule, avoid designing a kitchen that’s higher-end than the rest of your house. Buyers want to see an attractive and practical space that will be low-maintenance upfront.
3. Better Bathrooms
You might not think to remodel your bathroom before selling, but a bit of modernizing can go a long way. New plumbing fixtures, a granite countertop, and fresh tile are just some of the ways to make your bathroom more appealing. The bathroom should be a space that home buyers feel calm in, so touches of luxury can be helpful. This might include a double vanity, rain shower head, and heating flooring. However, remember to be practical. Luxurious features like jacuzzi tubs may not appeal to every buyer, potentially turning some interest away.
4. Curb Appeal
As you make a list of indoor home improvements, don’t forget about the outside. Curb appeal provides the first impression to potential buyers, so it pays to invest in it. While you don’t need to splurge on expensive landscaping, you want to make sure that the exterior looks polish. Seal the driveway, weed the garden, purchase some planters, and clean out the gutters. A fresh coat of paint can also be a great touch. Your roof is also important to home value, so consider whether it needs repairs. Companies like Reno Roof Repair can provide quality repairs and replacements to improve the appearance of your roof. They can also ensure that your roof adds to your home’s overall energy efficiency.
5. Square Footage
When in doubt, add square footage. Larger homes generally carry more value. However, keep in mind that it’s best to invest in a home addition if you’re planning to stay in your home for the foreseeable future. Additions are expensive, and shouldn’t be a last-minute attempt at increasing value. Another bedroom, larger living room, finished basement, porch, or deck can all increase the square footage or maximize unused space. These additions will not only increase your home value but appeal to buyers who need more space.
If you aren’t sure which home improvements are worth it, be sure to talk to a real estate agent. They know the local market and what buyers are looking for. A home appraiser can also help, as they can assess the current value of your home and make recommendations for getting more out of it. Whether this means finishing your basement or adding insulation to the attic, the investment is often worth it when you sell.