Just thinking about improving your home’s value is a big project. We’ve all been there, scratching our heads and wondering “where do I start?” We can get lost just trying to find our focus.
At Stone Central, we like value – in our materials, our work, and our lives. Why should projects around the house be any different? So we suggest starting where you can get the most ‘bang for your buck.’ Ahead, we’ll lay out our approach to getting the most from your home improvement journey-with some advice from experts, too.
Curb Appeal
Curb appeal is important for a great first impression-and that can go a long way toward upping your home’s value.
Realtors overwhelmingly suggest that landscaping is a priority. Hiring a professional landscaper to address known issues like drainage, tree care, and even general maintenance can be a huge help.
But there are other ways to increase your home’s value that may not be obvious. Replacing your garage door can have a direct affect on your home’s value-up to a 103% return, some estimate.
One of the most unseen boosts can come from adding to your yard’s functionality. Improve seating by expanding a deck, carving a brickwork path, or even planting a tree for shade.
Better outdoor lighting can be an effective value booster, too, providing better visibility, security, and appeal.
Recently reviewed research from horticulturists at Virginia Tech rank ‘sophistication of design’ as the most important factor in improving your home’s landscape. You can increase your home’s value just by turning your yard into a unique space.
Kitchen
While curb appeal is the most obvious way of increasing your home’s value, improving the kitchen is one of the best investments you can make.
It’s not an obvious thing to do, but upgrade your sink. It’s the centerpiece.
When considering upgrades, don’t forget about functionality and durability. Making sure your sink has two (or even three) troughs can improve its use.
Upgrading to strong materials is important, too. Kitchens are a high wear and tear area with high traffic (which quartzite is great for, btw). Daily use, water, and heat can cause strain and make upkeep harder.
Ensuring it’s made from the absolute best materials can increase its longevity. Adding a backsplash is an underrated but wonderful addition, reducing water damage and increasing the quality of the kitchen experience, too.
Bathroom Renovation
Bathrooms are an important part of a person’s relaxation plan. And they’re another high maintenance part of a house. Heat, friction, complex plumbing, and constant use make it a space that needs durability.
Definitely invest in a new sink space. This is the front piece of a bathroom area that everyone sees first. Making it a visual priority is a must. Rebecca Knaster of William Raveis, a New York Realtor, says it’s the first thing a buyer notices.
Also consider refreshing your tile space. This is especially important for shower thresholds and shower surroundings. Like sinks in the kitchen, the shower and tub are high strain areas that act as a centerpiece for the room.
Energy Efficiency
According to the National Association of Realtors, 2023 saw an uptick in buyers interested in long-term sustainability. And while energy efficiency may seem obvious, many try to avoid the initial costs.
The best option for energy efficiency is window replacement. It’s a double win. Replacing windows improves both curb appeal and energy costs at the same time, doing more with less.
But don’t forget heating and air control. In 2023, HVAC improvements provided big returns (about the same as garage door replacements).
Floor and Roof Repairs
Replacing worn out surfaces can hit multiple points on your home improvement checklist. In the case of your roof, for example, it can improve curb appeal, energy efficiency, and structural integrity.
Even better, repairing and even updating your flooring can offer a significant increase in home value. The National Association of Realtors suggests that you can recoup 147% of your costs by replacing your flooring. That’s pretty good math.
In conclusion, improving your home’s value can seem overwhelming. Try breaking down your options and focusing on what gives you the most ‘bang for your buck.’ It may be tempting to just throw a bucket of paint on the problem, but a little care can go a long way toward maximizing your home’s potential.
TO LEARN MORE:
To learn more about natural stone, or the Stone Central team, visit our website at StoneCentralSC.com