Purchasing a home is the biggest real estate investment that the average person is going to make. As with any investment, you want to see it grow. In order to increase a home’s value, you need to make improvements. Simple renovations throughout the property can bring in a larger return when you decide to sell.
Curb Appeal
The first thing potential buyers see when they visit a home is the front of the house. First impressions can make or break a sale. If the siding needs replaced, the sidewalks are cracked, and the landscaping has been let go, that buyer is going to start losing interest no matter how grand the interior is. Start with the basics. Paint the trim, doors, and siding with a complimentary colors. If the siding is in bad shape, consider replacing it with new vinyl siding which is easy to maintain. Replace windows, shutters, and any other items that are worn or broken. Once the structure is in good repair you can begin updating the accents around the house. Have the drive and sidewalks repaved, and add new porch rails, steps, or decking when necessary. The final step should be the landscaping. You can find help online or at your local garden center. They can recommend bushes, trees, plants, and flowers that will best suit your home. Many also offer recommendations for placement of the foliage.
The Interior
Buyers want to see a clean, modern home that they can easily move into. Walking into a house filled with needed repairs and updates is a big turn off. You can start the interior renovations by assessing each room one by one. Bedrooms are quite easy. Make sure there are no holes in the ceiling or drywall. Add a fresh coat of paint in a neutral color, and use window treatments for privacy. Living areas should also be in good repair as well as provide ample lighting for the space. The majority of your investment dollars should be spent on the kitchen and bathroom. These rooms need to be updated with the latest appliances, and faucets, showers, and other plumbing should be problem free. Because these rooms are so important to the home’s value, it is best to leave the work up to a professional. You can find leads for contractors by asking friends and family or searching online through sites like Web.com Contractor Services.
Once your renovations are complete, you will have a home you can enjoy, and when the time comes to sell, you will find that your hard work has paid off. Remember that as a homeowner your house may be your biggest investment.
