Where to start?
According to Florida Realtors, they advice clients to start with the four home improvement basics: foundation, roof, plumbing and electrical. Of these – roof is the most important.
Repair : First take a good look at the state of the home, inside and out. Fix the obvious areas that need maintenance.
De-clutter : Find ways to store odds-and-ends in containers or cabinets, or donate belongings to charity.
Lighten up : Brighter, light-filled rooms are more appealing and make a house feel more spacious. Consider replacing heavy drapes with shutters, shades or blinds.
Add eco value : Replace old windows with energy-efficient versions to reduce home energy costs and add value.
Update : Water heaters, furnaces and toilets are also good to update for energy and water conservation, though newer ones probably won’t add significantly to the home’s value.
Refinish : If wood floors are looking tired, refinish them. Replace worn carpeting where possible.
Kitchen cleanup : The kitchen is an obvious focal point for buyers. Consider a light update in the kitchen by replacing the sink or replacing cabinets. If you’re planning to replace counters, try solid surface quartz-based materials, which have become the popular alternative to granite.
Better bathrooms : Bathrooms are typically less expensive to remodel than kitchens, so there is more potential for a return on the investment. Buyers frequently request double vanities and a walk-in shower, so consider upgrading accordingly.
Remodel : It’s usually more cost-effective to remodel attics and basements than to add entirely new rooms.
Spruce up : Add curb appeal by weeding and sprucing up the garden with low maintenance, drought-tolerant plantings. Giving the front door a new coat of paint is a low cost way to add curb appeal.
