When making home improvements, it’s important to think about what will pay off the most if you ever decide to sell. We’re here to offer helpful guidance – so you can maximize your investment!
Achieving the best future return on your home isn’t limited to just one or two projects; there are several improvements that can enhance both the look and function of your space. From simple cosmetic changes to bigger upgrades, let’s explore the ways you can boost your home’s resale value.
10 Home Improvements With the Best ROI:
Up your curb appeal
The first thing future buyers will likely notice is the outside of your home, so make it feel warm and inviting! Simpler changes like replacing the front door, adding window boxes or installing a new mailbox can make a big difference. Other updates, such as repainting, replacing your gutters or applying landscaping bricks can also freshen things up – and add lasting character. Plus, it never hurts to plant flower gardens or fast-growing trees that will bloom beautifully in a few years.
If your budget allows, you could consider slightly bigger upgrades, as well. For example, replacing old siding with durable materials like vinyl or engineered wood can enhance your home’s appearance and protect it from the elements. Upgrading your garage door – whether insulated or not – can add value, too. For a sophisticated touch at a lower cost, you could even add stone veneer to the front of your home, giving it a high-end look without the price tag of real stone.
The idea with making these sorts of upgrades is to enhance both the aesthetic and value of your home. That way, you can create a welcoming first impression but also provide long-term benefits that can pay off when it’s time to sell.
Remodel your kitchen
The kitchen is often seen as the heart of your home – and for good reason! It’s where meals are prepared, loved ones gather and memories are made.
Simpler changes like painting, updating appliances, replacing countertops and adding a new backsplash can make your kitchen look more modern and polished. These updates also have practical benefits. For example, new appliances can save energy, and new countertops and backsplashes are easier to clean and take care of.
To improve your kitchen even more, put in an island for extra surface space and socializing. Install custom cabinets and cupboards for a nice personal touch. Brighten up the room with new lighting. You could even add a taste of elegance with hardwood floors! The goal is to make your kitchen more stylish and useful for years to come.
Renovate a bathroom
Updating a bathroom is another great way to enhance the comfort of your home – and clean up when it comes time to sell! For example, replacing an old vanity with a sleek, modern one can change the whole look of the room. The same goes for swapping old flooring with new options, such as laminate, hardwood, custom tile or similar materials. Stylish LED lights and an eye-catching mirror can also transform the space. And again, it never hurts to add a fresh coat of paint.
But if you can stretch your budget a bit further, think about doing a full remodel. You could add a new shower with a rainfall showerhead or built-in benches for a spa-like feel. If you have the room, a freestanding tub with jets could also be a great choice. Extra features like heated floors, a towel warmer and custom cabinets can make your bathroom even more comfortable and useful for future resale value. And in the meantime, you can soak up all the perks of your upgrades.
Finish the basement
If your home has an unfinished basement, completing parts or all of it can give you more living space. Extra square footage usually increases a home’s value, so it’s likely worth the investment! Add a home office for yourself, a fun room for the kids, a theater area for the whole family or a wet bar for when you entertain guests.
Smaller investments can go a long way, too. Install basic lighting. Add drywall and insulation. Update trimming and baseboards. Even applying carpet and a fresh coat of paint can transform the look of your basement. Also, if there’s a separate room, consider adding an egress window and a closet – these are key elements for qualifying it as an additional bedroom!
The basic idea is to make the most of underutilized space and turn it into something functional and stylish. Your basement should not only improve your quality of life, but increase the appeal of your home to potential buyers down the line.
If you’re planning a remodel for your kitchen, bathroom, basement or any other space, apply for a home refinance or home equity loan! Both are great ways to tap into the value you’ve built in your home to fund improvements.
Enhance storage space
While you’re making the most of underutilized space in your basement, you could also consider adding extra storage there – and in other parts of your home, as well! Like many other homebuyers, you likely love having extra places to store your belongings.
Look for opportunities to incorporate storage in a way that compliments your other projects. Adding a pantry in the kitchen? Include plenty of shelves to hold various items. Putting in a mudroom? Provide cubbies for your kids to put their coats and shoes in! You get the idea.
Add a deck or patio
Outdoor spaces are also important to many homebuyers. Adding a deck, patio or gazebo can make your home look more modern and give you extra space for relaxing or entertaining. And if you live in an area with changing climates, such as North Dakota or Minnesota, it helps to make these outdoor areas functional year-round with weather-resistant materials, heat sources and retractable enclosures. You can also add value by installing built-in features like an outdoor kitchen, fire pit or pizza oven.
Upgrade windows and doors
Speaking of extreme weather months, drafty windows and doors can turn future buyers away and make your energy bills higher. Replacing them with newer, more energy-efficient options can help keep your home at a comfortable temperature and enhance its style.
What material you choose is key. While wood offers great natural insulation and a timeless aesthetic, vinyl, aluminum and fiberglass provide excellent energy efficiency, low maintenance and durability.
It’s also important to consider the security features you want, such as locking mechanisms, reinforced frames or impact-resistant glass for added safety. Levels of natural light and ventilation are important details, too. And if you’re interested in soundproofing, opt for windows and doors with noise-dampening features.
Install smart home features
Adding smart home technology is another great way to increase your home’s value. Updating and automating things like thermostats, lights, appliances and security systems can make your home more convenient, comfortable, safe and efficient.
For example, smart thermostats learn your preferences and can save energy, while smart lighting lets you set schedules and control lights from anywhere. Security features like cameras and sensors can even send real-time alerts to your mobile device for extra peace of mind. From voice assistants that play your favorite music to doors that automatically unlock when your kids arrive home from school, smart home features are popular because they make daily life easier.
Update your HVAC system
Upgrading your HVAC system can boost your home’s value, as well. A modern heating and cooling system makes your home more comfortable and appeals to buyers who want lower bills and eco-friendly features. For example, along with the smart thermostats mentioned previously, zoned systems make it easier to control the temperature in different parts of your home, improving efficiency.
When your furnace or air conditioner reaches the end of its life, consider replacing both at the same time. This helps ensure they’re properly sized, work efficiently together and have matching lifespans. Plus, some sellers offer buy-one-get-one deals, which could help you save!
Replace the roof
A roof in poor condition is a big red flag for buyers and can make them hesitant to make an offer. If your roof is old, damaged or worn out, replacing it could be a smart investment. And while it can be expensive, a new roof built with quality materials is often worth the cost – it could last anywhere from 25 to 50 years! Plus, it gives buyers peace of mind, knowing they won’t have to worry about expensive repairs or safety issues.
Making smart improvements is key to achieving the best return on your home. By strategically planning your upgrades, you can enhance your living experience and help your home stand out when it’s time to sell.
We’re with you every step! Apply for a home refinance or home equity loan today. Our lenders can’t wait to assist you.
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