Home remodeling can make your space more enjoyable and increase its value. However, not all renovations are equal. Some projects add significant value, while others might actually reduce the sale price. Here’s what you should know.

Top 7 Home Improvement Projects to Increase Value

Enhance Curb Appeal

First impressions matter. Improve your home’s exterior by cleaning the siding or adding a new walkway. Simple changes like installing a new front door, trimming shrubs, and adding mulch can make a big impact. A well-kept lawn and colorful flowers enhance the “wow” factor.

Consider updating your home’s exterior lighting to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Repainting the exterior or adding new siding can also dramatically improve your home’s appearance. A fresh, clean look makes your home stand out and gives potential buyers a positive first impression before they even step inside.

Upgrade the Kitchen

Improving your kitchen can greatly boost your home’s value. Start small: replace the faucet, add new cabinet hardware, and swap old light fixtures for modern, energy-efficient ones. Instead of replacing cabinets, paint them or hire a service to refinish the cabinet boxes and install new doors and drawers. These updates make your kitchen look fresh without breaking the bank.

In addition to these small updates, consider updating the countertops and backsplash to modern materials that are both stylish and durable. Installing new flooring, such as tile or hardwood, can also significantly improve the look and functionality of the kitchen. A well-planned kitchen remodel not only enhances the aesthetics but also improves the overall functionality, making the space more attractive to potential buyers.

Modernize Appliances

If your kitchen appliances don’t match, order new doors and panels from the manufacturer. This will create a cohesive look. Consider replacing old appliances with new, energy-efficient models. They save energy and appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.

Upgrading to the latest appliances also means incorporating smart technology. Smart appliances, such as refrigerators with touch screens and ovens with Wi-Fi capabilities, add a modern touch that can be a big selling point. These appliances not only offer convenience but also help in reducing energy bills, making them an attractive feature for eco-friendly buyers.

Refresh the Bathrooms

Bathroom remodels can recover a large portion of your investment. Simple updates like new fixtures, fresh paint, and re-grouting the bathtub make a big difference. A new mirror and light fixtures can quickly transform the space.

For a more comprehensive update, consider replacing outdated bathtubs and showers with modern, efficient models. Adding new tiles, updating the vanity, and installing a water-saving toilet can also add value. These upgrades make the bathroom more functional and appealing, creating a spa-like experience that can be a major draw for potential buyers.

Improve Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient homes attract buyers. Start by adding insulation to your attic and sealing cracks around doors and windows. Replace old, drafty windows with Energy Star-rated ones to save on heating and cooling costs. These updates are appealing and can qualify you for energy tax credits.

Upgrading your home’s HVAC system to a more energy-efficient model can also make a significant difference. Installing a smart thermostat can help manage energy use more effectively. These improvements not only lower energy bills but also make your home more comfortable and environmentally friendly, which is a strong selling point for modern buyers.

Renovate the Attic or Basement

Adding square footage by renovating existing spaces, like the attic or basement, is cost-effective. Turn the attic into a bedroom or workout area, or convert the basement into a family room. These versatile spaces appeal to buyers who can personalize them.

Adding insulation and proper lighting can make these areas more comfortable and usable year-round. Consider adding built-in storage solutions to maximize the space. By transforming these underused areas into functional living spaces, you increase your home’s usable square footage without the high costs associated with building an addition.

Add a Deck

Building a deck is a great investment because it increases living space at a lower cost per square foot. A deck enhances the appeal of your home and provides a space for outdoor activities.

Choose durable, low-maintenance materials for your deck to ensure it remains in good condition for years to come. Adding features like built-in seating, planters, or even a small outdoor kitchen can make the deck even more attractive. A well-designed deck not only provides additional living space but also enhances the overall outdoor experience, making your home more appealing to buyers.

Projects That Can Lower Home Value

Not all improvements increase value. Highly personalized projects may not appeal to potential buyers. Here are a few to avoid:

High-End Upgrades

Luxury upgrades like marble floors may not yield a high return. Focus on quality, mid-range upgrades that appeal to a broad audience instead of extremely high-end features.

Over-customizing your home can make it less attractive to the average buyer. Instead, choose materials and finishes that are stylish yet neutral. This way, your home appeals to a wider range of potential buyers who can envision themselves living in the space without feeling overwhelmed by highly specific design choices.

Garage Conversions

Converting a garage into living space might add square footage, but most buyers prefer having a garage. It’s best to keep this space as it is to avoid reducing your home’s appeal.

Garages provide valuable storage space and protection for vehicles. By converting a garage, you may inadvertently limit the practicality of your home. Buyers often look for homes with ample storage, so keeping the garage intact can be a smarter choice to maintain your home’s market value.

Swimming Pools

While luxurious, in-ground pools can be seen as safety hazards, especially for families with small children. They also come with higher energy and insurance costs, which can deter buyers.

In addition, pools require regular maintenance and can be expensive to keep in good condition. Potential buyers may view this as a hassle and an ongoing expense, making them less likely to choose a home with a pool. Unless you live in a region where pools are highly desirable, it’s best to consider other types of home improvements.

FAQs

What are the most valuable home remodeling projects? Kitchen upgrades, bathroom remodels, and adding a deck are among the top projects that can increase your home’s value.

Why should I improve my home’s energy efficiency? Energy-efficient homes attract buyers because they save on heating and cooling costs and are environmentally friendly.

Are luxury upgrades worth the investment? While luxury upgrades may look nice, they often don’t yield a high return. Focus on quality, mid-range upgrades instead.

Can a swimming pool decrease my home’s value? Yes, pools can be seen as a maintenance burden and a safety hazard, especially for families with small children.

Should I convert my garage into living space? It’s generally better to keep the garage as is. Buyers typically prefer having a garage for storage and vehicle protection.

Home remodeling can significantly increase your home’s value if done wisely. Focus on updates that enhance essential areas like the kitchen, bathroom, and energy efficiency. Avoid overly personalized projects that might not appeal to future buyers. By making smart improvements, you can enjoy a more comfortable home while also boosting its market value.

For more personalized advice and professional remodeling services, contact Homecorp. Our experts can help you plan and execute the best home improvements to maximize your home’s value.