Workers completing a home improvement project in a bright living room

Remodeling Projects That Can Help Your Home Value (Pt. 1)

In Homeowners, Sellers by Doug Phelps

Major home remodeling can be costly and inconvenient, but it can also greatly raise the value of your house. Even in this market, home repairs can be beneficial to your home’s overall value. There are certain projects that can raise the price of your home and others that don’t impact your home price, or even worse, may even lessen it. If you’re contemplating remodeling your home, or upgrading some things in your home, in this 2 part series we’re going to cover things that can either increase or potentially negatively impact your home’s value.  This week, we’ll cover the top 5 projects that can increase value:

1. Remodeling the kitchen

Starting with the potentially most costly project on this list, a top-notch kitchen can sell a home quickly. After all, people cook family dinners in kitchens, host parties and gatherings and start their day with morning coffee in the kitchen. Depending on what shape your kitchen is currently in, a kitchen remodel could include updating the sink, new cabinets, decorative backsplash, new paint, the addition of an island or replacing the floor. For a quick change of look, some homeowners opt to paint their cabinets depending on if that is appropriate for the material of the cabinets. Consult with a trusted contractor if you’re interested in a full kitchen remodel, and if you’re in need of a contractor I have a great list of referrals!

2. Upgrading appliances

Related to the first point, upgrading your appliances can create a great first impression for those touring your home. Nothing screams outdated kitchen like a dingy and loud refrigerator or scratched washer and dryers. At this time of year, you’re in luck if you’re looking for new appliances as many stores will be trying to clear out their inventory to make year-end numbers and make room for new appliances. Huge appliances like washer and dryers, refrigerators, microwave and dishwashers will likely be on sale this time of year. Also, if the kitchen appliances don’t match, that will likely drive your value down at least a bit. 

3. Upgrade the bathroom

Just like kitchens, a nice bathroom can sell a home quickly. Bathrooms can be a sanctuary for some homeowners who are looking for a large shower or jacuzzi tub.  If your bathroom is outdated, then this could be a great value-add to your home. Replacing the sink, upgrading a tub, replacing tile and adding a high efficiency toilet can all be great additions. 

4. Replace the carpets / flooring

If you’re looking to add value to your home for potential buyers, new carpet will stand out right away! Dingy, dirty old carpets can decrease home value.  While some carpets can be saved with a good deep-cleaning, some carpets just need to be ripped out and replaced. Not just carpet, but scratched wood floor or tile can decrease value too. Evaluate your flooring and decide if this is an option you should consider. 

5. Improve curb appeal

Before even entering your home, potential buyers will first see the outside of your home so curb appeal is of utmost importance. While a home doesn’t need dazzling landscaping to sell well, a nice presentable view helps immensely. At the most basic level, making sure your home’s paint isn’t peeling or the landscape isn’t overgrown is job one.  From there, consulting with a trusted landscaper or painter can help you decide what may help boost curb appeal.  Again, I have a great reference list for painters and landscapers. 

What remodeling projects are you thinking of doing soon? Are you in the market to buy or sell your home?  Call and text me at (720) 323-4176 or email me at [email protected]

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