Whether you’re thinking about selling or just want to make your home more valuable, it’s important to know how to increase the value of your property.
Fortunately, there are many ways you can do so without spending too much money or risking getting an appraisal that doesn’t reflect your home’s true value.
1. Increase Energy Efficiency
Increasing the energy efficiency of your home can be one of the best ways to improve its value. It will make it more appealing to eco-conscious buyers, who are likely to pay a higher price for a more sustainable home.
It can also help reduce your utility bills, which will improve your family’s financial situation. It is a great investment, especially for those who are looking to sell their homes in the future.
The US Department of Energy has a Home Energy Score, which measures the energy-efficiency of your home on a scale from one to 10. It’s an easy way to see what changes can be made to make your home more efficient and help you save money.
Boosting the energy efficiency of your home has many benefits, from helping you lower your monthly energy bill to reducing pollution and contributing to climate change. It can also increase the value of your home and give you a more comfortable place to live.
2. Upgrade the Kitchen and Bathrooms
If your kitchen or bathroom needs major updating, a home renovation is the best way to achieve the new look you’re after. Not only will it provide a much-needed aesthetic update, but the renovation process can add value to your home in many ways.
Invest in durable products and materials. The kitchen and bathroom see a lot of wear and tear, so you’ll want to make sure that the materials are durable and long-lasting.
Upgrade appliances
Using energy-efficient models can reduce your monthly utility bill. Check for the Energy Star label, which means that they’ve been tested to meet energy efficiency standards.
Improve function
Upgrading the countertops and cabinets can increase your storage space. Installing a backsplash can also help make your kitchen more functional.
Remodeling both the kitchen and bathroom at the same time can also save you money in the long run. This is because the two rooms often share similar finishing materials, which can make it more affordable to buy everything you need in one place.
Adding a second bathroom can also add a significant amount of value to your home. Bathrooms can add 80 to 115 percent of their costs to a home’s value.
3. Create Usable Outdoor Living Space
These spaces are increasingly popular among today’s homeowners, who are looking for a place to relax and entertain friends and family.
Whether it’s a small pool for the kids or an outdoor kitchen to cook meals, these additions will help you enjoy your home more and increase your resale value once you’re ready to sell.
While the weather can play a factor in how well an outdoor living area works, a cover that protects the furniture and appliances from rain will extend its use beyond the dry season.
It’s also a good idea to choose materials that are designed specifically for outdoor use, as this will make them more resistant to mold and mildew caused by moisture.
Another feature that can add to your outdoor living space’s resale value is lighting. This will ensure that the area will be usable all night, season after season.
If you’re preparing your home for sale, make sure to consult with a professional about how much resale value adding an outdoor living space can have for you. This will help you decide which additions will work best for your home and your budget.
4. Make Smart Use of Storage Solutions
Having a good storage system is important for many reasons. It helps you organize your belongings, makes it easier to find what you need and prevents clutter from piling up.
Smart storage solutions can take many forms, from furniture that doubles as a functional piece of art to a cleverly designed shelf that can store a multitude of things. Whether you’re looking for the best way to declutter your home or want to upgrade your living space, make sure you choose a solution that fits your unique needs.
The most efficient storage options are those that utilize spaces you might not otherwise think of. For example, a tall, narrow pullout shelf is an excellent way to maximize storage in your kitchen or pantry. And, if you live in a small studio apartment, an over-the-door storage solution is a great way to get the most out of limited floor space. Likewise, a pegboard in the kitchen will let you hang a variety of small items that you can easily find when needed.
5. Update Lighting Fixtures and Switches
Changing out old lighting fixtures is an efficient way to brighten up your space and boost your home’s value. LED lights are a popular choice as they use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last for years to come. Adding LED strip lights to your kitchen and bathroom is also a good idea, as they provide ample lighting in small spaces without consuming a lot of power.
Another cost-efficient home improvement is replacing outdated switches and outlets. These are often the culprits behind electrical arcing and other potential safety hazards, which can cause fires, electrocutions, and other costly repairs down the road. Replacing a light switch is an easy and affordable task that can be accomplished by yourself or with the help of a handyman.
6. Paint the Interior and Exterior
A fresh coat of paint can create a whole new look for your home, making it appear more spacious and modern. It also makes your house stand out from other houses on the street.
When choosing a color for your home’s exterior, keep in mind that there are many shades and hues to choose from. It’s best to choose a shade that complements your neighborhood and tastes.
It’s also important to choose a paint that will stand up to the elements, such as rain and snow. It needs to be easy to clean and resistant to fading and mildew.
It also helps prevent dust from forming on your walls, which can be harmful to your health. This is why it’s recommended to choose a paint that has low or zero VOCs. This will improve the air quality in your home, which is a benefit for those with allergies or asthma.
7. Update Flooring
Updating your flooring can also help improve your indoor air quality. Choose flooring that doesn’t emit harmful pollutants and chemicals into the air, which can negatively impact your health and well-being.
It’s also important to ensure that your floors are consistent throughout your home. Often, homes with different types of flooring in each room will look patchy and disjointed.
The main living areas of your home should be given the same type of flooring, including bedrooms and bathrooms. This will give your house a more cohesive and open feel, which is something buyers are looking for.
Updating your flooring can also help you save money on energy bills and maintenance costs. Certain types of floors serve as better insulators, which can help you stay cool during the summer and warm during the winter.
Final Words
Increasing the value of your home can be done through a variety of methods, from completing DIY projects to making updates and repairs. No matter what route you take, remember that these changes may add value to your home in both monetary and personal ways. Create a plan that works best for you and your home. Go over to this page for more inspiration.
