Your home is your biggest investment. You can increase its value by making improvements. Here are some ways to increase the market value of your house.
1. Add Solar Power
Solar panels are more affordable and durable than ever. Although a residential solar installation might seem costly up front, you’ll save enough money on utility bills to pay it off in a few years. Plus, you have the freedom of not needing your local utility company for power. Should there be an ice storm, you won’t be without power.
While you’re at it, make your home more energy efficient. Replace your old bulbs with LED lighting. Insulate your home to help it stay more comfortable in the summer and winter months.
2. Build a Back Porch
A beautiful back porch adds value and beauty to your home. It’s like adding additional living space to your residence and will increase its value. You’ll be more motivated to spend time outdoors, but don’t just stop with a porch. Build an awning to keep the area cooler in the summertime. Also, add planters with flowers for additional color.
3. Remodel Your Kitchen
Your kitchen is the place where you spend the most time, so remodel it to make it beautiful and efficient. Add new cabinets or save money by having your old ones refaced. Consider adding countertops of quartz or some other beautiful and durable material. Add an island to give you more counter space. Also, put in a small office space with plenty of outlets and a seating area.
4. Make Your Home Senior Friendly
Make your home senior-friendly. Remodel the bathrooms by adding grab bars and installing a shower seat. Make the doors wider in case you or a family member becomes wheelchair bound. Make sure there is plenty of good lighting in your home. Also, change the door knobs so they are easier to open for those who have arthritis.
5. Repaint Your Home
A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for your home both inside and out. Make a plan of how you will paint your home before you start. Keep in mind that you’ll need to paint your walls at least twice, so add in time to allow the first coat to dry before painting the second one. Also, make sure you know how to use a color wheel so you can choose the best color for both the interior and exterior of your home.
6. Improve the Landscaping
Curb appeal is crucial both for your home and for the neighborhood. Your neighbors want your home to look great from the outside as much as you do. Add flowers that bloom all summer and be sure to mulch your flower beds to deter the growth of weeds. Add flower pots to your front porch. Also, repaint the front door to make it more attractive. Add evergreen shrubs to the outside of your house.
Follow these tips to improve the value of your home. Although it takes time and money, you’ll see a higher return should you need to sell your home in the future.
