5 Upgrades to Improve Your Home's Value
Before you jump the gun selling your house you may want to consider spending a little on these upgrades to get the most out of your home’s value! Take a look at your home’s trouble areas and see what parts could use some improvements.
Kitchen
The kitchen is one of the first places many buyers check out first, which is why you’ll want to focus on this area more than others. If yours is cramped, consider knocking down a wall to make it more spacious. Spruce it up with new paint on the cabinets. Install modern looking counter tops and/or a sink. Make it brighter with new, energy-efficient light fixtures. If your appliances are a little older then you may also want to consider replacing them too.
Bathrooms
Next most visited area buyers scope out is the bathroom. Anything that looks worn down has got to go. Evaluate the sink and determine if it could use an update too. This includes replacing old shower/tub tiles or even the toilet seat. Discolored floors should be replaced as well. If the faucets are old and failing have them switched out. The idea is to make it look like no one has ever used that bathroom before.
Smart Home Appliances
Many home buyers are now looking for homes that come equipped with modern smart home technology. There are many products that connect wirelessly (allowing you to access them from your phone) that can help increase efficiency for your A/C system, or allow you to unlock your doors with your smartphone, even controlling your light fixtures, sprinkler systems, security systems, garage doors, etc., all from your phone. An electrician can even help put in a brand new grid system that monitors electrical usage throughout the home.
Solar Panels
Another desirable new technology buyers want is to have a solar ready home. There are many federal rebate programs to help you offset the installation costs. Solar America estimates that the installation of solar panels can save you over $1,500 per year on your utility bills and the U.S. Department of Energy has found that adding solar panels can increase your home’s resale value by $15,000!
Landscaping
If your yard looks like a jungle then it’s time to get it under control. Tangled trees and unkempt bushes can obscure views, darken interiors, promote mold, and block a good look at the house. Clear out the overgrown areas and add some color with new flowerbeds of native species, exterior lighting, walkways/paths, and new fences/gates if they are falling apart. A deck for the backyard is also sought after with buyers who want to spend family time outside.