Are you thinking about how to add value to your home? Quality home renovations will do just that. If you’re planning a renovation project, knowing the types of house upgrades that add the most value to your home is a big help, particularly if you are planning to put your home on the market at some point. Some trendy features will help attract buyers and give you an advantage when it comes to selling your home. Home offices, home gyms and entertainment rooms have become popular features in many homes. Valuable house improvements are not only limited to indoor spaces. More and more homeowners are looking to renovate their outdoor space to mirror the comfort they enjoy inside their homes.
Home upgrades have enormous benefits. Not only does it allow you to enjoy your space while you live there, it gives you an advantage should you decide to sell in the near future. Some upgrades have a better ROI than others, so being informed on what type of upgrades you should embark on can make all the difference. With so many options, how do you decide which type of upgrade to choose? We’ve listed some of the best home renovations you should consider.
Upgrades that create a bigger space
The amount of livable space in your home is one of its greatest appeals. So if you find ways to add physical square footage to your home, you have a greater chance of attracting potential buyers. Most people on the market for a new home want more space than they had in their previous home. In fact, one of the leading reasons why people sell their first home is to buy a bigger one.
1. Add a home office
In light of the pandemic, more people are working remotely, meaning they need a place in their home specifically designed for productivity. Even prior to the pandemic, work from home opportunities were growing and have risen considerably in the last decade. Building a home office not only gives you a dedicated work area in your home, it will add square footage to your property.
If you have a basement in your home, this would be a perfect location for a home office because it is separate space away from the rest of the home. If your home does not have a basement, consider converting a walk-in closet into a home office. Another option is to build a standalone home office on your property. This is the most expensive option, however, it will pay off significantly.
2. Finish your basement
If your basement is unfinished, you are wasting valuable space. Gone are the days when basements were simply rooms where you stored items you had nowhere else to put. Today, basements can be used for just about anything. Whether you choose to convert your basement into a sauna or an entertainment room, finishing a basement is always a good idea. A basement creates additional square footage which can place your home in an entirely new price bracket.
3. Incorporate an open concept floor plan
Open layouts continue to be popular because they allow a room to be used for multiple purposes. In addition to this, an open layout creates an illusion of more space. An interior designer can help you determine which wall to break down and how to create natural divisions. Open layout concepts are also known for ushering natural light into the room and giving you more flexibility for your interior decor.
Upgrades that add to your home’s curb appeal
Your home’s curb appeal can attract potential buyers before they step foot in your home. Well manicured landscapes and external features give the impression that you take great pride in your home and put a lot of effort into maintaining it. Research shows that buyers will spend more on a house with good curb appeal than a house whose exterior looks neglected.
Investing in your home’s exterior is an excellent investment because you will get a good ROI on your investment. By mowing the lawn, fertilizing the lawn, performing weed control and incorporating features in your yard that create focal points, you’ll be adding value to your home.
1. Install stone veneer
The front of your home is where you should focus your attention, so think about replacing the front exterior of your home with stone veneer. Stone is a popular choice because of its appeal and durability. This may seem costly, but the ROI is well worth the investment.
2. Upgrade to a Steel Front Door
There is more to an entry door than providing protection and security. Modern entry doors have enhanced features like energy efficiency. Steel doors are not only highly durable, they are extremely low maintenance and can be customized with various color options.
3. Replace your garage door
If you have a dull, old garage door, consider replacing it with a modern and higher performing option.
4. Replace your mailbox and house numbers
These are two features that often go unattended, and yet they are minor items that a potential buyer will notice. Replace your old mailbox with a newer more attractive one with a durable finish. For house numbers, choose a creative font and colour that complements your home’s exterior.
5. Redo your home’s exterior paint
Painting the whole exterior of your home may not be feasible if you have a tight budget, but there are ways around this. Simply touching up areas of your wall that have flaking or chipped paint can make a huge difference. Other things you can do to restore the vitality of your home’s exterior are pressure washing the outside of your home to remove dirt and mould. Don’t forget to also power wash your sidewalk, driveway and patio or deck.
Upgrades that enhance outdoor living
Many homeowners are revamping their outdoor space so they can enjoy the benefits of being outdoors without compromising comfort. Adding certain features will make it easy for you to enjoy the great outdoors when the weather is nice and warm.
1. Add a deck/patio
Decks and patios are popular backyard features because they allow you to indulge and entertain while enjoying the weather outdoors. Backyard decks have a great return on investment.
2. Install an outdoor fireplace / firepit
Fire pits are often a top choice because they provide warmth when the weather gets a little chillier. Fireplaces are a classic feature whether they are indoors or outdoors. Create a cozy atmosphere everyone will love by installing a fireplace or fire pit.
3. Add a pool or hot tub
Everyone loves a pool on a hot summer day! This is another great feature that will add significant value to your home. A pool is a great way to cool down on hot summer days and can provide a lot of fun activities for your family and guests.
4. Furnish your front porch
Your front porch could do with some attention too! Many homeowners focus on their backyards when it comes to furniture and yet adding a few creative items to dress up your front porch is an excellent idea. Think about adding different furniture pieces like rocking chairs or other comfortable seating options to your front porch.
5. Add an outdoor kitchen
These have become wildly popular over the past decade. Cooking outdoors is a fun activity that allows family members to all pitch in while enjoying the outdoors. It’s a perfect win-win! Outdoor kitchens can either be basic with just a few key items or elaborate for a luxurious outdoor experience. Think about adding features like a grill, cabinets, a sink and some key kitchen appliances.
Upgrades that reduce maintenance
If you live in an older home, it may be more difficult to sell your home because buyers will be concerned about potential repairs needed over the next few years. Upgrading some of the costly appliances before you sell your home can keep potential buyers interested in purchasing your property.
1. Replace aging HVAC
Potential buyers often want to know when your HVAC was installed or replaced. Typically, an HVAC system has a lifespan of 15 to 25 years if it is maintained well. If your system is more than 15 years old, consider replacing it before you put your house on the market.
2. Repair the roof
On average, an asphalt roof has a lifespan of 25 years. Be sure to conduct any repairs or replace shingles if your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan.
Hire a Professional
The key to successful home renovation is hiring professionals with a track record of excellence. Home improvements are costly, so you want to make sure you hire a reliable team for the job. VIP Classic Moulding has an experienced team of experts for your house project. Reach out to us today to learn more about our home renovation services.
