7 Projects That Will Boost Your Home’s Value; The BHGRE Life, Blog
While purchasing a house may mostly be about having a place to call “home,” it can also be seen as a lifetime investment. Making a few repairs—and even some cost-effective projects—not only will skyrocket your home’s value but can make it a more enjoyable and comfortable place to live. We tapped into our network of Pros to uncover seven of the most valuable repairs you can make for the long-term, whether or not you plan to sell in the future.
1. Repair the Exterior
As the saying goes, you don’t get a second chance to make a first impression, whether it’s with your new neighbor or a future buyer. Repairing any broken doors, damaged screens, or cracks in your front walk can really make a difference. It can vastly improve your home’s curb appeal as well. You might want to consider having your siding pressure-washed, your trim repainted, or your landscaping spruced up.
2. Fix Up the Roof
Having a roof over your head is a moot point if your roof is in need of repair. A roofing contractor can quickly fix damaged or missing shingles, clogged gutters and detached flashing on your roof. While you’re at it, schedule a chimney cleaning—when was the last time you had your flue inspected and swept? (Hint: You ought to have this done once a year.)
3. Repair Plumbing Issues
If the roof doesn’t leak, neither should the plumbing. Hire a plumber to fix those slow drains, dripping faucets and poorly functioning water heater. You may consider that it might be time to install a completely new water heater, especially if yours is 10 to 15 years old or more.
4. Update Interior Walls
If you’re looking to sell your home, you want a potential buyer to be able to visualize living in your home. While you might love your unique color scheme, it might be a good idea to consider painting your walls a more neutral palette. Ask your painter to patch any holes and sand down the walls while they’re at it to get the best effect.
5. Restore the Flooring
Do you have scratched or buckling hardwood floors, outdated vinyl tiles from the 1970s, or carpet so dirty you can’t remember the original color? One of the fastest and easiest ways to revive your home is to replace the flooring. With so many options today—stain-resistant carpet, wood-look vinyl flooring, eco-friendly bamboo or cork—you’re sure to find a floor that you and future owners will love.
6. Remodel the Kitchen
You’ve probably heard it before: The kitchen sells the home. This adage is absolutely true, so if you’re looking for a larger renovation, start with the kitchen. Additions such as, new appliances, refaced cabinetry and stone countertops are a few of the most popular kitchen modifications that will help increase the value of your home.
7. Improve the Bathrooms
If your bathrooms look like they belong in the 1980s, it’s time for an update. You can go as low- or high-budget as you like, so talk to your contractor about where to spend your renovation budget to get the biggest impact. Additions like new fixtures and updated tile could be all it takes to bring your bathroom into the 21st century.