Think your home needs sprucing up? Looking for ways to boost its value? Time to put your tool belt on – or pick up the phone and give your favorite contractor a call. There’s nothing like a spot of remodeling to make a home look good and sell better. Here are some remodeling projects that can actually help improve your home’s value:
Front Doors
Your front door can make a big impression – after all, it’s one of the first things that would-be buyers will see. If you want to boost your home’s curb appeal, you’ll want to make sure your front door is making the right impression.
You might want to consider getting a midrange 20-gauge steel door. Steel doors are thought to provide better fire safety and security and are more affordable and easier to maintain than wooden doors.
Fireplace
A fireplace is often at the top of a home buyer’s wish list, and having one can boost your home’s value by as much as $12,000, according to the National Association of REALTORS®.
A fireplace is an absolute necessity in areas with colder climates, and a functional fireplace with classic design and a beautiful mantle also adds ambience and overall value to your home at a relatively modest cost.
Flooring
While plush carpeted floors conjure up comfort, they can be a pain to clean and maintain. Consider replacing carpets with durable hardwood floors.
Buyers nowadays prefer the look of clean, glossy hardwood floors, and depending on the location, the type of wood and finish might differ, like oak floors in more traditional markets and stained wood in more contemporary homes.
Other trends include wider planks, reclaimed wood or hand-scraped wood, and exotic species of wood such as hickory or walnut. You might also want to consider laminate flooring, which offers the look of wood at a lower price point.
Garages
Unless you plan to live in your home for a very long time, avoid converting your garage into an extra living space. Most people still want the option of parking their car indoors, or at least having the storage space that a garage offers. Converting your garage into a room that’s specifically tailored for your needs might not suit potential buyers when it’s time to sell your home.
Decks
Extend your living space with an outdoor wood deck. You’ll have an area for al fresco dining, entertainment, and for your own relaxation and enjoyment. You can further enhance the deck by adding elements like a bar or outdoor fireplace so you can use it in the colder months.
