Are you looking for a home renovation project that will enhance your home? Or, are you interested in selling your home soon, and hoping to know which projects will attract buyers and give you the most return for your money? With any home improvement project, you’ll want to be sure it adds value to you and to any prospective buyers. Not every home project adds to the overall value of the home, and some projects just don’t see the return on investment to make it worthwhile.
So, what renovations are worth doing, and how much do renovations increase home value? In this guide, we’ll discuss the top five home improvement projects that are most likely to increase the value of your home and give you a return on your investment.
1. Kitchen Remodel
Because the kitchen is such an integral and important room in the house, renovations here are some of the most common, and often see big rewards in terms of the return on investment. The options for kitchen updates are endless — you can go for a more simple refresh or a total overhaul.
If you’re planning a major kitchen renovation, be sure to not veer too far from the original architectural style of the home and surrounding neighborhood, as this can be a turn-off to buyers — also, it may not offer as much return on your investment as a smaller project would.
Refreshing the cabinets and countertops can go a long way toward creating a new look in the kitchen. Open shelving instead of above-countertop cupboards is popular nowadays, as are two-toned cabinets and colors with more personality. If you plan on selling soon, stick with neutral colors and finishes, but if the renovations are more for you, go ahead and pick a fun color you love. Granite countertops, new tile backsplashes and new flooring are all great picks for easy kitchen upgrades.
2. Basement Remodel
If you’re looking to sell your home soon, an unfinished basement might not be the highlight of the tour. With a remodeled basement, you add a whole new level of excitement for potential home buyers. A renovated basement can serve so many different uses, and the additional room opens the door to endless possibilities. A basement can become a home office, an entertainment space or a gym. Finishing your basement adds to the square footage of usable space to your home, increasing its value.
The average homeowner recoups $30,000 in value from converting a basement to a living area. It’s also ranked as number six in the top 12 projects that add value to a home during resale.
There are plenty of ways to turn your basement into the main attraction when you host guests. Outfit your basement with a custom home theater or a functioning wet bar. Turn the room into a competitive arena for billiards, foosball or arcade games.
Your basement can also be the opportunity to create the workshop you’ve always dreamed of or add a unique focal point that’s sure to attract home buyers. Specialty remodeling can turn your unused basement into a kitchenette, wine cellar, home gym or whatever you can dream up.
3. Bathroom Remodel
A minor to mid-range bathroom remodel is a great way to see a return on your home improvement investment. The exact percentages of return can vary wildly, depending on the market and the type of renovations — but generally, an improved bathroom is a good idea. These types of bathroom remodels can include refreshing the floors — ceramic tile and stone are excellent choices that make a big impact.
Update the look of your bathroom with a new pedestal sink or vanity — or just replace the vanity countertop for a fresh look. Painting an old vanity and replacing the hardware is a quick and inexpensive way to update the room, too. Consider a new mirror, medicine cabinet or lighting fixtures — and be sure to match the style to the room’s hardware for a cohesive look.
Replacing the toilet, tub or shower can really take your bathroom renovation to the next level. Making the bathroom larger, and adding in spa-like features are also very popular in bathroom renovations today. If you have extra under-utilized space, you could also consider adding another bathroom, such as under a staircase or in an unused closet. An extra bathroom really adds to the overall value of a home.
4. Replacement Windows
If your home has old, drafty windows, replacing them with more energy-efficient ones can be a great way to add value to your home. Investing in energy-efficient windows improves the value of your home and contributes to much lower energy costs — you also may be able to qualify for energy rebates and tax credits. Of all the home improvement projects that increase a home’s value, replacement windows are one of the best — they offer multiple types of financial value and are attractive to home buyers.
Beyond energy efficiency, new windows are easier to open and close and have better locking systems. Be sure to replace old windows that are warped or cracked. New windows come in a wide variety of styles and finishes, so you can match the style of your home and add curb appeal.
5. Home Appliance Updates
Updating any of your home appliances is always a good idea for added value. The technology is always improving, and new appliances come with a wide variety of special features and better energy efficiency. Quality home appliances will improve the home and help increase its value. Potential buyers often look for new and energy-efficient appliances in homes.
Choose Brothers Aluminum for Your Remodeling Projects
For more than 40 years, Brothers Aluminum has provided quality remodeling and home improvement services. We are proud to be family owned and operated and provide top quality customer service. In addition to our remodeling services, we offer free in-home assessments, financing options and premium products. We know what improvements increase home value and can help you find the best, customized solutions.
Contact us today to get started on your dream renovations.
