Home Improvements That Will Increase Your Home’s Value

Remodeling and home improvement projects are on the rise this year, and it’s no wonder. Not only can they make your home more enjoyable to live in, but they can also increase its value.

However, not all remodels are created equal, and some projects can actually decrease your sale price. So, what can you do to help give your home a more updated look and feel while adding the most value?

This guide will take you through the top three home improvements that are worth considering if you’re looking to increase your home’s value. 

Kitchen Remodel

Modern, updated kitchens really pay off when it comes to the resale value of your home. The kitchen is one of the most used rooms in a house, so sprucing it up can be fun if you’re planning to live in the house. It’s also a great selling point if you’re moving out. 

Major kitchen remodels will likely be able to make at least 90% of that investment back, if not more. The cost to renovate an average kitchen is around $40,000 to $50,000 for a midrange home. A complete remodel includes new cabinets, flooring, an island, new appliances, fixtures, and paint. 

Cabinets

Depending on your budget, you can completely replace your cabinets or just give them an updated look. Cabinet styles do change, and there are some that are more modern than others. You can also add more cabinets or change the sizes to provide more storage space.

If you can’t afford to buy all new cabinets, a good middle ground would be to purchase new doors for your existing cabinets and paint the rest to match. You can also refinish or paint your current cabinets to save even more money. If you go this route, make sure to buy new hardware for an updated look. 

Open the Kitchen

If you have a smaller alleyway kitchen, you may want to consider knocking down a wall to open it up. This will give the room an open floor plan and give it a more spacious appearance. Kitchens with room for a small table are more attractive to buyers.

You don’t have to lose all that counter space either. Build an island in the center with cabinets for storage on one side and bar stools on the other for breakfast seating. 

Countertops

Countertops can take quite a beating and start to look stained or old after a while, especially in older homes that haven’t been updated in a long time. Installing new countertops can give your kitchen a fresh look.

If you want to splurge, granite countertops add an elegant and modern look. However, even new laminate countertops can make a huge difference, and they’re much more affordable. 

Flooring

Just like the countertops, you have a few options when it comes to updating the floors in your kitchen. You can choose a gorgeous tile that compliments the countertops and matches the room. If you’re looking for something cheaper, laminate wood floors look great in any kitchen. 

Paint and Backsplash

Fresh paint is another great way to spruce up your kitchen. If you’re planning to stay in the house, choose any color you’d like, but stick with more neutral colors that’ll appeal to anyone if you’re planning to sell.

Add on a new backsplash to give the room a more modern style. Choose a subtle pattern that highlights the kitchen’s other features, or pick something that stands out on its own, depending on your preference. 

Fixtures and Lighting

Smaller, more affordable changes can also give your kitchen a brand new style. This can include installing a new deep sink or specialty sink. Or, you can just replace the faucet and other fixtures in the kitchen.

Changing out the lighting in the room is also a great choice. Look for modern styles of lights or a new chandelier over the kitchen table. While most people take the lights for granted, switching them out for current versions can give your kitchen the refresh it needs. 

Bathroom Remodel

Whether you’re looking at the master bathroom or a secondary bathroom, making some upgrades can enhance the value of your home. With all the water and humidity, this room sees a lot of action, giving it an aged appearance. Making repairs and remodeling can make it look fresh again.

A major bathroom remodel could give you over 93% return on investment if done right. A big project like this will cost an average of $26,000 in a midrange home. A major remodel could include expanding the space, putting down new flooring, replacing the tub and toilet, replacing sinks and cabinets, putting in new countertops, and upgrading fixtures. 

Shower and Tub

Many homeowners don’t like the shower and tub combo, so you could consider building a separate walk-in shower and freestanding tub. Not only does this eliminate the step-in hazard associated with combos, but it also allows you to extend the shower.  

A larger showering area with spa-like features is more attractive to potential buyers. You can also add an oversized bathtub with jets to provide extra relaxation and pampering. 

If all this seems too much, you don’t have to replace the shower and tub. Just regrouting the bathtub and shower can refresh the room. Caulk is cheap and easy to apply yourself, so you won’t even need to hire someone to do it for you.

Flooring

Like the kitchen, remodeling the floors in the bathroom is a very effective way to update the room. Ceramic or stone tiles offer a beautiful look and are generally easier to keep clean. However, vinyl tile is a more affordable option that will also look great.

Countertops and Sinks

A new countertop can also upgrade the room’s whole look, especially if you go with granite or stone. Again, laminate countertops are another great option, giving the room a refreshed, modern style.

Vessel sinks offer a more elegant appearance while also providing more cabinet space underneath since they sit on top of the countertop. If that’s not your style, there are plenty of different sink options that you can choose.

Cabinets

Just as with the cabinets in the kitchen, you have plenty of options for remodeling. You can buy brand new cabinets, new doors, or refinish and paint your current cabinets. Change out the hardware to match the look you’re trying to achieve. 

Fixtures and Lighting

New faucets and fixtures can update the bathroom’s style. Changing out the lights to something more contemporary will make a significant difference.

Also, consider looking into energy-efficient toilets. Not only do they look nice and offer money savings, but they’ll also be attractive to buyers and add value to your home. 

Exterior Improvements

Curb appeal is a huge factor in your home’s value, and first impressions of your house and yard are essential. This means keeping up on your home’s exterior and landscaping is just as important as remodeling indoors.

You should see a 100% return on your investment when you properly landscape and care for your outdoor property. A well-maintained exterior and landscape imply that the house is well-taken care of and in excellent condition.

Siding

Vinyl siding can get dirty pretty fast, so something as simple as cleaning it can improve the look of your house. Of course, if it’s in really rough shape, it may be time to replace it altogether. Whether it’s necessary or not, you can also choose to replace your siding with a stone veneer for a more modern style.

Steel Door and Garage Door

A steel door replacement for your entryway is another good option. Not only does it add extra security and insulation, but it also looks great. As an added benefit, steel doors are energy efficient and low maintenance.

A new garage door is another option. These doors crack and degrade with time, so a new door provides better insulation, as well as a cleaner look. If your motor is still in good condition, you can save some money by just replacing the door itself. 

Roof

Repairing or redoing the roof is another great option. It gives the house a fresh look, but more importantly, it means you or the buyer shouldn’t have to worry about replacing it for another decade or two. This adds enormous value to houses on the market. 

Landscape

Well-planned landscaping in the front and backyard creates an inviting environment. A nice, open patio in the back will create a place for entertaining and family gatherings. Trimmed shrubs and plants can add the proper aesthetic both in front and back of your home. 

Add in a flower bed for a pop of color. Or, consider putting in low-maintenance trees and plant life, like those local to the region. Since these types of plants need less attention and water, you’ll be saving yourself some time and money.

No matter what type of home improvements you choose to do, Home Service Stars can help connect you with the right home service professionals for the job. Our 5-star home service partners have a solution for a variety of problems ranging from indoor or outdoor services to urgent needs. If you’re ready to talk to a home improvement provider right now, call us at 1-877-960-2893.