7 Home Improvements That Will Increase Your Home’s Value
If you’re thinking about making improvements to your home, it’s important to plan wisely. While some renovations add little value to your home, others increase its value substantially, offering an impressive return on your investment.
Whether you’re planning to stay in your home and want to enjoy it more, or you’re looking to get a bigger payday when you sell, we have some advice on smart moves you can make to boost its worth.
1. Make Any Necessary Repairs and Improvements Before You Do Anything
Repair any leaks, fix squeaky doors, replace rusty rain gutters, and insulate your attic. You basically want to avoid making a negative impression on buyers.
Another simple thing you can do to freshen your home’s look is to touch up paint on door frames, banisters, and any other place it may be scuffed or chipped. These little fixes go a long way toward making your home appealing.
2. Update the Kitchen
For most families, the kitchen is the heart of the home. Giving this room a little attention can bring big rewards, both while you’re living there and when it’s time to sell. Matching appliances, and cabinets with a fresh coat of paint, neutral flooring, and updated hardware can go a long way.
3. Perk Up the Bathroom
A bathroom should be functional, but also comfortable and easy to clean. Large mirrors with plenty of natural light are a big seller, and updating hardware can help refresh your bathroom’s look.
Want to go the extra mile? Think “spa” and invest in some special features like a Jacuzzi tub, steam shower, or heated floor. Extra storage is also always appreciated in a bathroom. When buyers can picture themselves relaxing in your bathroom, it becomes a major selling point.
4. Make Your Home More Energy Efficient
They’re not as glamorous as a luxury bathroom, but any improvements that increase your home’s energy efficiency will appeal to today’s homebuyers. Consider replacing outdated appliances or investing in high-efficiency windows or a programmable thermostat.
5. Add Some Extra Space if You Can
Flexible living space is very appealing, so try to find a place for a “flex room” to be used as a home office, guest room, in-law suite, or anything else a buyer might need. Finishing an attic or basement is a great way to create some extra room.
6. Boost Your Curb Appeal
Keep the landscaping simple but tidy, make any necessary repairs to the exterior of your home, and consider repainting the front door and updating the garage door. If you need inspiration, you can find hundreds of great ideas online.
7. Give it All a Coat of Paint
One of the least expensive things you can do to freshen up an entry or change the look of a room is to slap on a fresh coat of paint. Stick to neutral tones if you’re trying to sell, and focus on high-traffic areas like the front and back entrances, common areas, and bathrooms.
How to Pay For All Those Home Improvements
Now that you know which improvements to make, you still have to figure out how to pay for it all. If it’s already in your budget, you’re good to go! If not, we have an easy, affordable way to get you started.
Take advantage of your largest asset by borrowing money with your home equity. Whether you want the flexibility of a line of credit or the stability of a loan, our home equity products can provide you money at an incredibly low rate.