Remodeling spending in 2018 is expected to increase by 7.5 percent over last year, according to Harvard’s Joint Center for Housing Studies. While several home improvement projects can boost the value of your home’s worth, only a select few offer a real return on your investment. Whether you decide to stay put or put your house on the market, it’s wise to choose upgrades that have a high payback.
Before you assemble your to-do list and get to work, here are five tips for growing the resale value of your home.
- Install a new garage door. The national average price for a project like this is around $3,400, but keep in mind — you can recoup up to 98 percent of the costs. If buying a garage door is something you’ve never done before, you should first know about the four kinds of garage doors available: Aluminum, steel, wood and composite wood.
When you’re thinking about which garage door to buy, it’s understandable that price may influence your decision, but you will also want to consider your location, insulation and the overall look of the garage door. The most economical option is steel depending on the features you select, however if you live in a humid area, it’s better to purchase aluminum because it’s rust-resistant. Wood garage doors are usually more distinct in their appearance, but are more costly overall due to the initial purchase price and maintenance fees, which are can vary based on your location and climate. The composite version, however is moisture-resistant and insulated and offers a look comparable to the wood with a lower price tag.
Remember to look for models that are storm ready in the event there are high winds. You also should opt for insulated doors if your garage is directly connected to your house. This will lower utility costs, create a regulated temperature in the space and reduce noise.
- Create an inviting presence outside. Appearance matters. If you notice any eyesores, it’s likely that others will see the same areas that cry for attention. What can you do to make the exterior look better? First, make necessary repairs to anything that may be falling apart like the roof, the siding or the gutters. If everything is in good shape, then splurge on other projects such as a grand entrance with a new front door and a sidewalk with a colorful flower bed. Keeping the yard mowed and trimmed also goes along way to create a tidy exterior.
- Do a kitchen remodel. If you’re using older-looking appliances, switch them out for newer ones, better yet, opt for energy-saving options that cut back on costs. The same applies to old countertops — make a swap using quartz. Investing in the floor and adding neutral fixtures rather than trendy ones will also help to increase your profit.
- Replace old windows. Nothing screams high utility bills like old windows. If you’re still using the same ones from 15 years ago when you purchased the house, it’s time to make updates. Install energy-efficient windows to create the most value.
- Do a bathroom remodel. Having a functional bathroom that you enjoy using not only makes life nicer but it also boosts your home’s value. With this particular improvement, you can recoup more than 50 percent of the costs. Aside from the project scope, factors including materials, cost of labor and location all affect pricing. HomeAdvisor notes the average price to remodel a bathroom in Los Angeles is $11,377 – $23,898, whereas in a place like Mississippi, it’s under $14,000, according to the Houzz Real Cost Finder. To make your remodel a success, be sure to at least replace antiquated or cracked tiles, update fixtures and add a coat or two of fresh paint.
There are several home improvement projects that will increase your home’s resale value, but these five projects guarantee some of the best returns. Why? They appeal to everyone including you and a potential buyer. Before your tackle everything at once, determine which improvements your house needs the most and make plans accordingly.
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