Are you thinking about selling your home and want to get the best price? A few simple upgrades can have a major impact on your property value. In a competitive real estate market, it’s important to stand out!
Curb Appeal Upgrades
First impressions matter, right? So make sure your home makes a lasting impression on prospective buyers! A simple way to do this is to improve your curb appeal.
Curb appeal updates can be as simple as landscaping or more complex updates like changing the exterior paint or siding of the home.1 It’s up to you to decide which upgrades you think will have the biggest impact and which ones fit within your budget. Here are a few ways you can improve your home’s curb appeal:
The Front door
The front door is often the focal point of your home. If it doesn’t look inviting to you, it likely won’t look inviting to a prospective buyer. A fresh coat of paint can go a long way in giving the focal point of your home an improved look.
Landscaping
Arguably the most important element of curb appeal is landscaping. Keep a manicured lawn, clean up your flower gardens, and get rid of leaves, sticks, and other debris to make your yard look attractive. A little hard work can go a long way!
Lighting
Illuminated walkways, driveways, and gardens can provide a sense of luxury. A well-lit home can also improve the safety of your home by deterring trespassers.
The Roof
If your home leaks every time it rains or if your roof is missing shingles, it might be time to replace the roof, or at the very least have some maintenance done. Prospective buyers usually always inquire about the age of the roof, so don’t overlook this update!
Kitchen Remodeling
The kitchen is considered the heart of the home! This is where the food is but it’s also where people always tend to gravitate to. Little updates can go a long way in boosting your property value.2 Here are some of the top kitchen updates to consider:
Cabinets
If your cabinets are old and outdated, updating these can make a big difference in how the kitchen looks and feels. If you don’t have the budget to replace the existing cabinets, then a fresh coat of paint can go a long way.
Countertops
While you’re updating the cabinets, it’s also important not to overlook the countertops. Upgraded countertops will give your kitchen a modern look. While marble is stunning, it’s also expensive. You can opt for more affordable choices like granite or quartz countertops, which also require less maintenance.
Appliances
Buyers want a home with nice but usable appliances. You don’t have to invest in top-of-the-line appliances, after all, you likely won’t get your money back, but you should at least make sure they match.
Other Cosmetic Upgrades
You don’t have to gut the kitchen before selling your home but a few simple cosmetic upgrades can make a huge difference. Other things to consider updating include swapping out your hardware for something more modern and giving the kitchen a fresh coat of paint in a neutral color that will appeal to a wide range of buyers.
Bathroom Upgrades
If you’re planning a large bathroom remodel, add an additional bathroom to your floor plan. You may be able to see an investment return of up to 88%!3 But if that’s out of your budget, simple upgrades can also have a big impact. Here are a few bathroom renovations that can help boost your home’s value:
Change the Vanity
Changing the vanity can have a big impact on the appearance and functionality of the bathroom. Opt for a modern vanity to update this space and look for one that has ample storage space. To avoid costly upgrades, look for vanities that don’t require additional plumbing and can fit in your existing bathroom.
Install Mirrors
Most people have a mirror in their bathroom. But while you’re doing upgrades, this is a good time to assess if your current mirror fits the space. A nice high-quality mirror can give the allusion of a larger space and help make the room appear brighter.
Light Fixtures
Updating the light fixtures is another simple and cost-effective way to modernize the bathroom. Most modern fixtures are energy-efficient, and potential buyers will appreciate the update.
Bathtub Updates
If installing a new shower or bathtub is out of the question, consider refinishing your existing bathroom fixtures. Refinishing a bathtub is a lot cheaper than replacing it and a good, high-quality job will make your tub look brand new! However, this is a job that you’ll want to leave to the professionals!
Outdoor Living Spaces
Don’t forget about your outdoor living spaces. Are there broken steps? A disheveled deck? Perhaps faded and outdated patio furniture? These are all things to assess. Repairing or refinishing an existing patio may provide an ROI (return on investment) of up to 500%!4
Energy-Efficient Improvements
Energy-efficient improvements help the environment but they also help decrease your utility bills and they can significantly increase your property value.5
These types of upgrades appeal to the modern buyer who’s looking for sustainability and long-term savings. So, what type of energy-efficient improvements can you make?
Smart Home Technology
This is a simple upgrade that can have a big impact! Some examples of smart home technology include smart thermostats, lighting systems, and energy management devices that allow you to control your energy more effectively. For example, smart thermostats allow you to schedule and adjust heating and cooling remotely, helping you save energy. Smart lighting can also be programmed to turn off when rooms are not in use, further enhancing your energy savings.
Solar Panels
While not everyone has the means to install solar panels, they can be one of the most impactful energy-efficient upgrades you can make. By installing solar panels, you’ll reduce your home’s reliance on traditional power sources. In turn, this will lower your energy bill. You might even be able to get tax incentives from the government. Doing your research by comparing the cost of installation vs the ROI is key to making sure this is the right upgrade for your home.
Windows and Insulation
Replacing old windows with energy-efficient windows and improving your home’s insulation can greatly improve your home’s energy performance. Energy-efficient windows and a properly insulated home can help reduce heat loss during the winter and keep your home cooler in the summer. Tax incentives may also be available for this upgrade, enhancing your overall savings.
Learn More About The Best Home Remodel Projects
Investing in the right home remodel projects can significantly boost your property value. The key is to strategically plan projects that will offer the highest return on investment while staying within your budget. Keep learning to discover the best home remodel projects and consider consulting with a professional to ensure you’re on the right track. Boosting your property’s value is just a few renovations away!