Deciding to remodel parts of your house can be tricky. Although you may want to improve your house’s functionality or aesthetic, you don’t want to pour so much money into the project that you never recoup your investment. Here are seven remodeling projects that can help you increase your home’s value and get you top dollar if you ever decide to sell it.
1. Add or Update a Bathroom
According to Everhart Construction, a Houston remodeling business, “A bathroom remodel not only improves your life now, but it also elevates the value of your home.” If you need another bathroom and have the space, consider adding one. If you want a half-bath, you’ll need at least 18 square feet. If you want a full bath with a standup shower, plan on allocating 30 square feet and with a tub, 35 square feet.
You can also consider updating your bathroom. Consider adding new tiles, tub, stand-alone shower, new fixtures, toilet, sink…remember to keep it functional and it will add value to your home’s value.
2. Build a Deck
A great way to add value to your home — especially if you live in a place that has nice weather the majority of the year — is to build a deck. Decks are incredible because they can actually add square footage to your home. It’s like having a whole extra versatile area off to one side of your housewhere you can enjoy outdoor living.Make sure you check your city ordinances and obtain any permits you might need before you start building the deck or adding a fire pit.
3. Landscaping
Landscaping the front yard adds a ton of curb appeal, which in turn,can add a ton of value to your home. Whether you have a green thumb or the gardener you hired has a green thumb, this is one of the easiest and most satisfying ways to increase the value of your home. A nice healthy manicured lawn, with some shrubbery or seasonal plants can definitely be worth the investment.
4. Add a Statement Front Door
The front entry door goes a long way in terms of transforming the look of a house. It is also a way to make a great statement without breaking the bank.Front doors come in all different types of materials, from steel to wood, and vary just as much in style. Andshopping for hardware will present you with a whole different layer of endless choices. A unique front entry door will add to the curb appeal and also to the value of your home.
5. Finish a Basement
Basements are great because they are like a blank canvas that can be used in so many different ways. For example, a finished basement can function as a playroom. It can also be used as a craft room, distanced from the main part of your home. Basements can also work as music rooms because you can isolate the noise. A finished basement can also be the perfect space for teens, an elderly parent or a renter because it can offer lots of privacy. And the best part about a finished basement is that you don’t have to commit to a permanent use of the space because it’s versatile, whichcan add to the resale value of your home.
6. Energy-Efficient Improvements
Is it time to swap out your single-paned, old, drafty relics with energy-efficient windows? Energy-efficient windows can save you a ton of money in heating and cooling costs — not to mention you may qualify for rebates and tax credits. Plus, they also can give your home a facelift. Also, adding extra insulation to your attic, caulking and filling leaks can save you on your energy costs. Another way to be energy efficient is to change all the light bulbs in the house to CFL or Compact Florescent Light bulbs. CFL bulbs use 75% less energy than regular light bulbs.
A programmable thermostat can help keep a house extremely energy-efficient. Purchasing a high efficiency water heater does, as well. The good news is that all of these changes not only contribute to an energy-efficient home but also to a home that has added resale value.
7. A New Garage Door
Replacing your standard garage door with a more detailed or decorative door can really make a difference in the curb appeal of your home. You might be surprised at what a difference a new garage door can make.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
