Homeowners can spend thousands on home improvements before selling, but how much is worthwhile?
We spoke to Richard from Heritage Home Hardware to find out. He suggests making a list of desired home improvements. Then, consider each item and determine its necessity and cost.
Consider home improvement projects in these terms: Will it make the home look better in photos? Will it address any red flags in a home inspection? And most importantly, will the improvement cost less than the value it adds?
There are affordable ways to increase your home’s value, including these improvement ideas.
INTERIOR: Easy DIY home improvement projects
1. Cleaning
Before addressing the bigger stuff, start with a clean slate. Start by decluttering to make your home appear larger. Then deep clean: vacuum, wash floors, deep-clean carpets, clean baseboards, windows (sparkling and streak-free), window trim, and crown molding. Aim for impeccable cleanliness in bathrooms; no mold or mildew. Check walls for dust or dirt.
2. Painting
Once everything is sorted, freshen up your walls. Start by addressing scuff marks and patching holes, dents, or other imperfections. A few cans of paint can make a dramatic difference; choose a neutral colour scheme to appeal to potential buyers. Paint the trim on your windows and doors too.
3. Lighting
Next, change the lighting fixtures in your kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and hallways. Adding light and modern pieces will update your space and showcase its best features. Well-lit rooms feel more welcoming, which is the atmosphere you want.
It’s a small detail, but buyers notice it. Swapping old cabinet hardware for newer versions is a quick way to give your kitchen (and bathrooms!) a facelift. This simple DIY usually requires a few turns of your screwdriver for a more modern look.
5. Storage
Potential buyers want to know there’s ample storage space for their belongings, so have simple solutions in place. Keep things tidy. In kitchens and bathrooms, corral cleaning supplies and personal care products in inexpensive baskets under the sink. Ensure cutlery drawers are neat and organized. Pay attention to bedroom closets and add adjustable rods and shelving. Use baskets for under-bed storage. Use specially designed shelving units for the empty space above the toilet to maximize storage.
A home with smart technology offers the lifestyle today’s buyers want. If potential buyers can use an app on a smartphone or tablet to control appliances, heating and air conditioning, and the security system, your home will be more appealing to them.
EXTERIOR:
Now that your home’s interior is in great shape, focus on the exterior. Curb appeal is crucial—if it looks unappealing outside, some buyers may not consider it. A little care can transform your home! These simple improvements add value.
Deep clean your home’s exterior. Use a pressure washer to restore your driveway, patio, deck, and siding. It’s a powerful, affordable tool that saves time and provides a more thorough clean than manual methods.
2. Landscaping
Enhance your home’s exterior with landscaping. Maintain your lawn, trim the hedges, and showcase flowers, trees, and bushes. These elements add warmth and personality to your abode. Keep your yard in good condition, storing hoses, lawn mowers, gardening tools, and garbage bins neatly.
Make your front door stand out—it’s the main focal point of any home. Either paint or replace it to make a great impression and enhance your home’s resale value. Use this opportunity to add colour or define your home’s aesthetic.
We take garage doors for granted. They occupy a lot of visual space, so why not make them look their best? A new one will enhance your home’s appearance. Depending on the type you choose, you can improve your home’s safety and security, and save on energy bills (if the door is insulated). Don’t forget a new opener as well.
To improve resale value even more, hire a pro
These projects can improve your home and make it more appealing to buyers. Hire professionals to enhance it with these ideas.
Any extra living space you provide will increase your home’s resale value—even if it’s outside!
Fire pits are popular. If you have a patio or deck, adding one creates a focal point in your backyard. You can situate it in another area to create distinct zones for entertaining and relaxing.
Fences enhance your property’s curb appeal and increase its value. They also provide a safe, private enclosure for your family and pets.
The best areas to spend money on home upgrades
Major home improvements in specific areas will provide the best return on investment.
1. Kitchen
Upgrades to this space will increase your home’s value. Replacing old appliances with new ones makes an instant impact. You can install new countertops, flooring, lighting, custom cabinets, an island, etc. Decide your budget.
2. Bathrooms
Upgrading bathrooms increases resale value. If you have an old vanity, replace it with a sleek new one with an undermount sink and modern hardware. Install new light fixtures. Don’t forget the walls—hang wallpaper or add a pop of colour with paint.
3. Roof
A new roof, though costly, reassures buyers they won’t face immediate repair costs. There are various materials to choose from, including asphalt shingles, metal, solar panels, and new high-tech materials that reflect the sun for lower utility costs.
Home upgrades to avoid
These home upgrades are not worth the money.
1. Don’t install a pool
Potential buyers often view a swimming pool as requiring extra maintenance and expense. Others with young children see it as a hazard.
2. Don’t change rooms from their original purpose
For example, if you’ve converted a bedroom into a library, turn it back into a bedroom before listing your home. Buyers won’t want to repurpose it.
3. Don’t change or install carpet
Few buyers want wall-to-wall carpeting. If you have existing carpeting, invest in a good steam cleaning.
The right home improvements can increase your home’s resale value. Before listing it, prepare properly and take the DIY approach whenever possible, completing only improvements that yield the best return on investment.
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