Regardless of whether you’re planning on selling soon or in the future, learning about home modifications that will increase the value of your home is like putting money back into your pocket.
Many sellers run the risk of making unnecessary home additions that actually drive away future buyers. With the right planning and research, you’ll be able to make your home a more comfortable space to live in as well as boost its value the smart way.
With this in mind, read on to learn about our top seven home modifications that can increase home value!
1. Handling Structural Issues
If you’re planning on selling your home soon, it’s important that you deal with any structural issues or damage sooner rather than later. This is because any repairs that you leave for later can get worse over time, costing you more money and decreasing your home value.
You may also find that structural issues of your home will ruin its aesthetic, leading to less interested buyers. These structural issues can include:
- Cracks in the walls or flooring
- Roof sagging or warping
- Warped doors or walls
- Pest control issues
You do have the option of selling your home as is, but any structural issues will need to be disclosed to buyers. You’ll also be selling your house for far less!
2. Adding Solar Panels
If you’re planning to live in your home for years to come, adding solar panels is a great investment for yourself as well as future buyers. You’ll be able to save a significant amount of money on your electrical bill each month as your solar panels generate an excess of energy.
Solar panels can also boost your home value more depending on the state you live in. For instance, New Jersey, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania offer higher solar premiums compared to other states. If you’re interested in getting solar panels installed for your home in Texas, visit https://blueravensolar.com/texas/.
3. Home Modification for the Elderly
If you live in an area where there’s a large retirement community, you may want to consider home modifications that make it easier for elderly people to access. This can include shower bars, ramps instead of steps to access the house, and wider doorway opening for wheelchair access.
Of course, these modifications are only necessary if you’re planning on selling it soon and want to market it as a place where people can retire. However, if you have an elderly loved one who’s going to live with you, these modifications can increase their independence and quality of life enormously.
4. Fixing Surface Defects
If your home doesn’t have any major structural defects that need repairing and you’re wondering what else you can do, we recommend you focus on small, superficial defects first. This can include:
- Peeling or chipping paint
- Replacing old wallpaper with paint
- Fixing creaky stairs, floors, or doors
- Replacing old door latches
- And more
These are all small things that together can negatively impact a buyer’s first impression of your home. Even if your home is structurally sound, peeling paint and scuffed-up floors may give buyers the idea that there’s something wrong with the property. Give everyone the right impression by dressing your home for success!
5. Extra Bedrooms
If you’re struggling to sell your home or want extra room in your house, we recommend looking into adding another bedroom. More living space can greatly boost the value of your home, and it can be fairly straightforward to do if you’re able to add extra walls to a larger space. You can also add an extra room by converting lofts or basements.
In order for a room to be considered a bedroom, you need to consider the International Residential Code (IRC). This means the room needs to be climate controlled, at least 70 square feet, and also includes properly-sized windows. Rooms also need two entrances and exits, though a window can count as a means of egress.
6. Updating the Bathroom
Besides the kitchen, the bathrooms are another area that buyers are interested in the most. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to do a full bathroom renovation in order to boost your home’s value. If you have an older bathroom, your updates can be as simple as replacing the tile so it looks fresh, modern, and clean.
You may also consider painting the cabinets as well as replacing the mirror for a more modern look. Bathroom hardware is also easy and affordable to replace.
7. Don’t Forget the Exterior
Enhancing the curb appeal of your home can also boost its home value significantly. You may want to start with a new fence, especially if you live near a busy road. Not only does this give you more privacy, but most fences are able to make the traffic noise coming from the road quieter.
You may also want to consider installing a deck or gazebo as a distinct entertaining space. However, if you don’t have the budget, consider just cleaning up the space of weeds and debris. Plant some annual flowers that give attractive pops of color and make sure the bushes around the house aren’t overgrown.
Home Modifications: Enhancing Your Home the Smart Way
When it comes to choosing the right home modifications to boost your home value, take some time to consider what your property needs before you start spending money. For instance, you’ll need to repair any significant structural issues before you start renovating your kitchen or bathroom.
If your home doesn’t have any structural issues, we recommend starting by cleaning up any superficial defects. Chipped tile, paint, or peeling wallpaper doesn’t give the best first impression to buyers. Even if your home has updated appliances and is structurally sound, a home that’s doesn’t look good aesthetically will still leave a bad impression.
Ready for more tips on how to get your home ready to sell? Keep reading our blog for more informative tips and tricks!
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