As homeowners, most of us are constantly on the lookout for ways to make our homes more comfortable, more functional and more visually appealing than before. Whether you’re just moving in, getting ready to sell, doing necessary repairs or are simply just ready for a new look- we’ve got something that may help you along the way! Keep reading below for a quick list of 10 high-ROI home improvements that are worth the upfront cost.
#1- Install a Steel Entry Door
Replacing your existing entry door with one made of steel will give you more security, less maintence, and more energy efficiency! If you are looking to sell your home in the future, this quick (but mighty) upgrade will resell at 90% or more of the total project cost!
#2- Upgrade Your Floors
Most carpeting lasts between 5-15 years and will need to be replaced eventually. Think about switching out your carpet for hardwood, faux wood or even laminate flooring. If you have hardwood that needs some love, refinish it. This can and will transform any space and will leave your older home feeling new. Engineered flooring is easier and less expensive to install than hardwood but is not as in-demand. According to a realtor interview done by HomeLight, potential buyers will walk away from homes with bad flooring and 54% of buyers are even willing to pay more for homes with hardwood floors throughout.
#3- Install New Windows
The National Association of Home Builders did a homebuyer survey including buyers from every economic background and found that Energy- Star rated windows were one of the most-wanted features for all. Not only is this efficiency upgrade good for your safety and comfort but potential buyers and appraisers will notice them too!
#4- Minor Remodels
Skip the major, upscale remodel and do some minor ones. For the kitchen, leave the cabinet boxes alone and replace the cabinet fronts with something stylish and functional. If you can upgrade your fixtures, do so. For the bathroom, ceramic tile and updated standard fixtures will make your bathroom look brand new. Unless you are remodeling your forever home, skip the frameless glass shower and the fancy towel racks.
#5- Interior & Exterior Paint
Good news! You don’t need to spend big bucks for your house to look new. For the interior of your home, fill holes from hanging pictures and other wall décor and repaint. A fresh coat of paint will cover wear and can make your rooms look bigger and newer! Stick to neutral colors and if you have popcorn ceilings, update them. For the exterior of your home, you don’t necessarily have to repaint everything to make it look new again. Pressure wash and touch up any chips around the house and think about painting your front door. A bold-colored front door will pop against a neutral-colored exterior so get creative!
#6- Keep Improving Your Curb Appeal
First impressions are crucial, especially if you are planning to sell your home. Good landscaping gives the implication that your home is well-maintained and has 100% ROI when you sell. A stone veneer project recoups about 90% of its cost in resale value. If your home has siding, consider its current state. Appraisers will pay close attention to the structural elements of a home. If you think you need to replace it, do so to avoid issues down the road. Know what brand of siding you have and when it was installed as many home buyers will want to know. Even if you don’t plan on selling, making these simple repairs now will boost your home’s value and save you from maintenance hassles in the future.
#7- Replace Your Garage Door
If you have a garage door, this is a big one as far as curb appeal is concerned. A new garage door will save energy and keep you and your family safe. This project is also big for recouping the cost if or when you sell. Garage door replacements rank as one of the top five home improvement projects with the highest ROI according to Angie’s List. In some cases, this upgrade can boost the perceived selling price of your home by 4% depending on the style you choose.
#8- Finish Your Basement
If you have a basement, finish it! Everyone appreciates extra space. Anything that adds physical square footage will increase the value of your home. In 2020, 44% of real estate agents surveyed by HomeLight during the pandemic said that 44% of their clients listed a need for more space as their biggest moving motivator.
#9- Get a New Roof
New roofs are a great investment. Along with significant energy savings, you will improve the stability, long term safety and curb appeal of your home. New roofs generally come with guarantees and recoup over 100% of their project cost upon resale.
#10- Add a Deck
A wood deck addition provides great entertainment space and a fresh new look for the exterior of your home. Although this one falls on the less expensive side of home improvement projects, it is extremely valuable. It creates more usable space which will help you during resale.
Renovations are important because they improve the style, comfort, functionality and value of your home. While this list is short, the possibilities for you and your home whether you are improving your home to sell or just for you, are endless! Are you in need of an expert for your next home remodel? Let us know at (888) 606-4738.
