Remodels are all about maximization, in terms of both your home’s value and you and your family’s personal enjoyment. So what projects are going to give you the best return on investment? Let’s take a look at a few of the projects primed to give you and your home the biggest boost in resale value.
New Entry Door
A sturdy steel door looks sleek and adds transformative power to the look and feel of the home at a relatively inexpensive price. Low maintenance, high-efficiency fiberglass doors represent another replacement option, though a high price tag can affect your overall return.
Read Related: 4 Tips to Choosing the Right Front Door
Modest Kitchen Remodel
The keyword here is modest. Going all out for a new dream kitchen is a nice…dream, but unless you are a professional chef (or plan on having one over frequently) or host multiple culinary conferences throughout the week, you may want to simplify those grandiose plans a bit. This doesn’t mean you can’t have what you want, but be smart, and above all, be practical when deciding what kitchen components are worth splurging on and which ones aren’t. Think carefully about your daily routine. For example, think small in terms of convenience, like adding drawer dividers or helpful cabinet storage solutions, and don’t sacrifice work space for the sake of unnecessary or gaudy gadgets. And remember, simply adding a backsplash or new color can do wonders for the whole of the environment.
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Read Related: So You Think You’re Ready For A Kitchen Remodel?
New Siding And Windows
At first glance, these additions aren’t the sexiest of home improvement projects. However, think about the overall look and feel of your home. A brand new exterior and shiny new windows can provide the pivotal pop that your home may have been previously missing. Plus, there are enormous lighting, efficiency, and airflow benefits to be had by installing low-maintenance, airtight windows that allow everything good to come inside, while keeping the not so good (noise, condensation, etc.) outside where it belongs.
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Read Related: How to Choose the Right Glass for Your Windows
What Not To Do
Common money mistakes often involve too much personalization, particularly if you plan on selling within the next five years. That decked out dream car garage you poured thousands into? The next homeowners may be simple bike commuters with no need for a car lift and supply store cabinetry. Same thing goes for your home office. It may be perfect for you, but the next homeowner may prefer Starbucks.
Think long and hard about how long you plan on being with your current home, and what components you really need, not just want – and the things you can do without. This simple process can and will help you renovate more resourcefully this summer.
Read Related: 5 Tips for Remodeling Your Home With Kids
Originally written by Cameron Poague of the Master Builders Association (MBA) of King and Snohomish Counties.
