5 Simple Home Improvements That Will Increase the Value of Your Home

 

 

 

If you’re trying to sell your home, then you know how important property value is. Many home improvement projects can increase property value. Some examples include finishing a basement or attic, a small kitchen and/or bathroom renovation, and adding on another room to your house.

Unfortunately, these are some pretty costly home improvement projects. The good news is that there are many other things you can do that won’t cost you as much as a full renovation or remodel. Here are five simple home improvement projects that will increase the value of your home.

#1: Curb Appeal

“Curb appeal” refers to the parts of your home and yard that can be seen from the curb, or when you first drive up to your house. Because this is your home’s first impression, you shouldn't neglect the outside of your home when preparing the interior for staging.

Start by pressure washing your home. Dirt and debris can build up on your home over time, altering the original color of your home. Once you’ve pressure washed your house you’ll be able to determine if a paint job is needed. You can also paint your front door and window shutters, and check your garage door, siding, and roof to see if they need replacing— and don’t forget to take care of your lawn.

#2: Deep Clean and Declutter

If you’re trying to sell your home, deep cleaning the interior is a must. A professional deep clean starts at about $200, and even though that’s a pretty reasonable price, you can also deep clean your home yourself. Start by decluttering closets, cabinets, and your basement and attic (if you have them).

If you have carpet in your home, you may want to call professional carpet cleaners. However, many home buyers prefer homes with hardwood floors or other non-carpeted flooring because carpets trap a lot of particles. If you have carpet, consider pulling it up and replacing it with laminate or vinyl flooring— a much more affordable alternative to hardwood floors.

#3: Energy-Efficient Appliances and Features

Having an energy-efficient home lowers the utility bills, so home buyers are attracted to homes that feature energy-efficient appliances. You probably already have energy-efficient appliances like washers and dryers, refrigerators, and dishwashers, but there are other energy-efficient features that you can install to increase property value. These include:

 - HVAC system and smart thermostat
 - LED light bulbs
 - Low-flow showerheads
 - Smart toilets
 - Vinyl windows

You don’t necessarily have to install solar panels in your home, but the features listed above can reduce utility costs by keeping the home cool in the summer months, warm in the winter months, and use less water and electricity.

#4: New Paint Job

Painting the walls in your home is probably the simplest thing you can do to increase property value. Start with the rooms in your home that may have an “odd” paint color, such as hot pink or even multi-colored. Experts recommend painting your walls neutral and earthy tones when you’re trying to sell your. These “odd” colors may be a turn-off even though the new homeowners can paint the walls whatever color they wish.

Also, keep in mind that bright colors fade quicker. You may be able to get away with light blue or green in the living room, or a very pale yellow in the kitchen. However, you’ll want to avoid white in the bathrooms.

#5: Update the Decor

Finally, you’ll want to update any decor that’s not furniture. This includes light fixtures, ceiling fans, kitchen and bathroom faucets, and hardware on your cabinetry and doors. Also, consider installing wooden blinds from Hunter Douglas. Wooden blinds are much more durable than traditional blinds, and they can also be considered an energy-efficient home upgrade because they help keep heat out in the summer, yet keep it in during the winter.

If it’s in your budget, you can also update other things, such as your kitchen countertops. Both kitchen and bathroom (small) renovations can greatly increase your property value. Just keep in mind that going overboard with your renovations may cost you more than the value it will add.

Of course, you can invest in bigger home improvement projects if your budget allows for it. It’s important to note that you should research which home improvements will increase property value in your area. All of the projects listed above will increase property value in the majority of places, but installing a backyard pool, for example, won’t increase property value everywhere.