When the real estate market is not thriving, many people decide instead of selling their home that they will stay put but make things better. Some people decide to wait it out and wait until the market gets back on it’s feet while others also decide to make some home improvements to make their home more comfortable (think a cozy backyard with a deck and fireplace to enjoy nature OR adding a new front porch for curb appeal pleasers). While there are some improvement projects that actually do add value to your home, some can actually detract from your asking price if you do decide to sell.
However, there are a few projects that really help not only improve your home but also add value. Which projects are worth investing you time, energy and money in and what are those to avoid? If you make any green upgrades, you can also start recouping your investment in various green energy technologies once you complete the projects. The following list highlights four improvement projects that can add value to your home.
- Remodel The Heart Of The Home– Many homeowners consider the kitchen to be just that, the very heart of the home and because of this, updating this really pays off in the long run. For example, if you fall in love with a home but then notice that the kitchen is extremely outdated, is that a deal breaker? This is one of the big reasons why homes don’t sell as fast as a homeowner(s) would like. Having a large open kitchen, updated appliances and countertops may look fancy but if the size and quality does not match with the rest of the home or neighborhood, it may be difficult to get a sell. Keep potential buyers in mind before you start any major remodel project. Many people don’t want to pay for a super deluxe kitchen but something that is functional for a growing family.
- Paint Goes A Long Way– a super simple way to improve your home that won’t cost you a fortune is repainting a room. Fresh paint, especially in modern or neutral colors, can go a long way towards updating the look of your room. Paint is very budget friendly and you could even do the labor work yourself or hire a few friends to help you. You may want to consider a low-VOC paint which makes your kitchen or bathroom a bit more eco-friendly and also helps your family avoid breathing in dangerous chemicals.
- Adding A Bathroom- A huge selling point that many potential families look for when purchasing a home is how many bathrooms the listing has. If your home only has one bathroom you might have some difficulty when friends and neighbors come over for a gathering. Consider looking at other spaces such as closets or areas under the stairs to add a half bath. If you want to add one, you need at least 18 square feet. If you are thinking of adding a full bath which may include a stand- up shower, you’ll want to have at least 30 square feet. A tub can add another 25 square feet to your bathroom too. Of course to help you save a bit of money, check Lowe’s or Home Depot for any reduced prices on sinks or toilets. You can also find great prices on tubes or fixtures looking at any consignment sales too.
- Remodel A Room– You can always reinvent an existing space in your home to help you save money so you don’t need to add an entire addition on your home. Add a finished basement or convert your attic into a bedroom or man cave for friends and neighbors to enjoy. Many homeowners sometimes add a small apartment over their garage which can also double as renting out a room to someone else. Before you demolish any rafters or walls, think of how it can appeal to potential buyers. Your basement can work as a second living room or game room.
With any of these small or large projects that you want to take on, if you’re uncertain of any part of it, my advice would be to hire someone who is a professional and also someone who you can trust to give you a fair price. If you live in the New Jersey area, a local company to call is C Mac Contracting. They offer a variety of services including kitchen remodeling, basement remodeling, wood crown modeling and more. Run by Chris Mackin, his friendly and supportive team, you’ll appreciate the knowledge, expertise and affordability that you can have when it comes to this construction company.
Whatever your project, big or small, they will be there to assist, advise and give you the room or improvement that you need.
Happily Ky 