When we buy a house, we aren’t always thinking about maximizing what it is worth later down the line. We are often looking at how we can make it the most comfortable for our family and us when we are using it. But, do you think about what you can do now that will increase the value of your home?
However, over time you might begin to outgrow this one perfect home and be considering moving. Most of the time, we don’t consider how much our homes are ‘worth’ but rather what we paid at the time.
Fluctuations in the housing market could mean that you are already going to see a profit of thousands over what you purchased the house for. Yet, you can make a number of changes to your home that will increase the value by a considerable amount.
Photo by Gustavo Zambelli on Unsplash
Kitchen
One of the rooms that have the most impact when people are viewing a property is the kitchen. And while most of the time, the kitchen can be modified to personal tastes – there is no denying a clean and well-designed kitchen.
The biggest return on investment comes from the larger remodels, but even smaller ones can make an impact on the value of your home.
You’ll need to pay close attention to the materials that will be used, and it can also be worth looking at other houses in the area that are on the market.
Big kitchen changes that increase the value of the home:
- New countertops in quartz, marble, or reclaimed and treated wood
- Stone tile flooring, laminate, or wood flooring
- Energy-efficient appliances
- Kitchen islands
- Increasing the amount of seating
Minor upgrades can also make an impact:
- Adding extra storage
- New and matching hardware
- New backsplash
Whatever you choose to add to your kitchen, make sure that it adds something to the performance or to the aesthetics.
Photo by Chastity Cortijo on Unsplash
Bathroom
After the kitchen, the bathroom is one of the most important rooms in the home. People are looking for multiple sinks, deep baths, neat lines, and plenty of storage.
From time to time, there will be homebuyers who are looking for a fuss-free shower room and nothing more.
And since you can’t please both parties*, you need to make a decision about who is most likely to consider buying your home.
The bathroom should look calming and welcoming. Often the following changes can see an increase in the value of the home:
- Adding extra storage
- Creating more light
- New sealant and grouting
- Retiling, painting, or deep cleaning
- Larger mirror
- Better (and more flattering) lighting
*If you have the room to do so, you can add an extra bathroom, and that can offer both options.
Purposeful Spaces
Unused spaces can quickly become the dumping ground of the home. Having unused static bikes and gym equipment, winter coats and boots, houses miscellaneous items, and more – isn’t a good look.
And while the space is useful, it is better to give it some purpose before having photos and viewings.
Take some time to clear out the room, and decide what it should be. It can be worth keeping in mind that many people now work from home or are freelance and could benefit from visualizing and office space.
Dressing the space up as you’d like it to be received will mean it’s easier for home viewers to imagine themselves using the space.
Photo by Paige Cody on Unsplash
If you don’t want to dress the room as an office, here are many other options that you can use:
- Gaming room
- Guest bedroom
- Home Gym
- Playroom
- Study or Library
- Music room
Energy Efficiency
If your home is relatively new, then you are less likely to need to update much in terms of energy efficiency and safety.
But if your home is more than 20 years old and you have made no upgrades, then it’s time to bring your home up to code.
You’re likely going to need to consult a few professionals like a plumber, electrician, and maybe some foundations inspections too.
At a minimum, you’ll be looking to improve and upgrade any of the following:
- Roof & guttering
- Insulation
- Windows and doors (check here for great options)
- Plumbing, boiler, and hot water systems
- Electrics
- HVAC
It will vary from home to home what is required. The culmination of all of these might feel expensive, but they will also offer a safer and more comfortable home to your prospective buyers.
When you conduct research, you will find that many custom options on the market will suit your needs and your budget. For example, a mini split installation will provide you with the energy efficiency you desire, without having to install all the traditional ductwork in your home.
Outdoor Space
Real estate agents will often talk about curb appeal – and how much a nice outdoor space and view from the street will impact the amount of interest that a house has. The outdoor space and curb appeal cover the look of the home and any garden space you have.
Anything that makes your garden more accessible and easy to look after is the first set of things to do.
Decking
It is always worth considering adding decks and patios. It is estimated that decks, decking, and patios can have an ROI of around 64%. Making them one of the best investments for your outdoor space.
If you have decking and or a patio, then it is time to invest in some professional cleaning to make sure it is safe and has any repairs it needs.
Exterior
Generally, curb appeal will cover things like outdoor lighting, a well-situated and safe pathway from the curb to the front door, and a crack-free driveway. There are some big-ticket items like the exterior walls, garage doors, and entryway.
Some reports state that something as simple as changing the color of your front door to something dark like charcoal grey can increase the value by thousands.
Garden
A general tidy-up for the garden can be sufficient; if you are using a landscaping company, you don’t have too much to consider. If you are going to DIY it, here are several areas that you should add to your list to do:
- Trimming, planting, or removing trees
- Reseeding any balding lawn and feeding it to keep it healthy
- Plant perennials and herbs in borders or large planters
Eco-friendly
If your house is fairly new, then you may already have many of the energy-efficient and eco-friendly options fitted. If not, then you are competing with houses that will have them. These items save money in the long term for buyers, making them so enticing to buyers.
Here are some installments and changes to consider:
- Upgrading the insulation
- Changing all windows and doors to double-glazed or having the current one resealed
- Smart home heating thermostat
- Installation of solar panels
- Water collection butt in the garden
It is often possible for you to get a discount on these initial installation costs, making it a cost-effective change that can see a huge return on your investment.
Interior
The interior design of the home can be tricky to get right. A simple interior means that people who view the home will picture their own furniture and family living in the home.
The first thing to do is make sure that your home is decluttered and cleaned often. The best way to get your home gleaming is to hire a professional cleaner. We get so used to cleaning our homes in a specific way that we don’t always notice the extras that we could do.
When the time comes to sell your home, you need to put yourself in the buyer’s position and look to maximize what the house has to offer in terms of safety, comfort, and lifestyle. This combination will ensure that you get the maximum sale price.
Choosing solar panels for your home can be tricky, but here is a great guide to help you choose the right company for your needs: How to Pick Home Solar Agencies: Everything You Need to Know.
