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-friendly renovations can not only skyrocket your home’s value, but can make it a more enjoyable place to live. Whether or not you plan to sell your home in the future, here are some repairs that will increase the value of your home.
Fix up the exterior – As the saying goes, you don’t get a second chance to make a first impression, whether it’s with your neighbors or future buyers. Repairing any broken doors, damaged screens, or cracks in your front walk can really make a difference. You also may want to consider having your landscaping spruced up, your siding pressure washed, or your trim repainted.
Repair the roof – Having a roof over your head is a moot point if that roof is in need of repair. A roofing contractor can make quick work of damaged or missing shingles, clogged gutters and detached flashing. While you’re at it, schedule a chimney cleaning! (You should have one once every year)
Address plumbing issues – If the roof doesn’t leak, neither should the plumbing. Hire a plumber to fix those slow drains dropping faucets and poorly functioning water heater. Keep in mind that you may benefit most from installing a completely new water heater, especially if yours is 10 to 15 years old or more.
Improve interior walls – If you’re looking to sell your home, you want a potential buyer to be able to visualize living in your home. And while you might love your unique color scheme, you may want 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.
Replace the flooring – Do you have scratched or buckling hardwood floors, outdated vinyl tiles, or carpet so dirty that you can’t remember the original color? One of the fastest and easiest ways to reinvigorate your home is to replace the flooring. With so many options today – stain resistant carpet or wood look vinyl flooring – you’re sure to find a floor that you and future owners will love.
Renovate the kitchen – The kitchen sells the home. If you’re looking for a larger renovation, start with the kitchen. 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.
Update the bathrooms – If your bathrooms look like they belong in the 1980s, it may be time for an upgrade. You can go as low or high budget as you want, so talk to your contractor about where to spend your renovation budget to get the biggest impact. New fixtures and updated tile could be all it takes to bring your bathroom into the 21st century.
