If you’ve lived in your home for a while, chances are good there are a few things that need doing, inside and out. Add in a plan to sell your home in the next 12 months, and those projects hold a lot more importance. While your personal budget makes a big difference in what renovations you choose to do, keep in mind what potential buyer’s focus on and what will offer the most return on your investment.
Here are a few renovations that result in higher home values and/or better offers once you list your property.
Kitchen Upgrades
Because it’s central to the majority of families’ lives, the kitchen will always be one of the top renovations homeowners make for themselves – and with potential buyers in mind. You might see up to a 75 percent return on the money you put in, if you choose wisely. If a full remodel isn’t an option, focus on the appliances, flooring, and backsplash.
Bathroom Updates
For one of the smallest rooms in a home, bathrooms are extremely important. Changing out old, wobbly toilets and cracked sinks is just the beginning. Consider a higher seat, high-capacity toilet. Swap out an old, stained tub for a new one. Buyers are gravitating toward standalone showers as an option. Make it a frameless to really stand out.
Easier to Maintain
When a buyer can move into a home that doesn’t need a lot of constant care or immediate updates, you’re going to get their attention. Easy landscaping, hardwood or tile floors, and small fixes make a difference. But if you’ve got money to invest in your home, consider new HVAC, roof, and/or windows. Buyers want to know they won’t be faced with big expenses in the first couple of years – and these renovations offer peace of mind.
Be Energy Efficient
If you’re already tackling big home projects, this is easy to do. A new roof, HVAC, and/or windows easily increase the efficiency of a home. When you purchase new appliances for the kitchen, look for those that use the least amount of energy. Even small changes like replacing old light fixtures and ceiling fans, and swapping out your light bulbs for LED bulbs can make your home more attractive to potential buyers.
Make Your Home Smarter
You can go as big or as small to make your home smart. Install a smart thermostat or a smart home security system that you can access from your phone. Swap your door handles for smart locks that don’t require a full replacement when the keys need to be changed. Of course, if you’re looking for a bigger renovation, a whole-house generator can be a great selling point, especially in a hurricane-prone area like the Emerald Coast.
Whatever renovations you do this year should fit your budget and your lifestyle. But it’s always good to think to the future, especially if there’s a chance you’ll sell your home soon. And if you’d like market specific advice, based on the neighborhood you live in and the size of your home, talk to a Realtor®. We’re happy to share our expertise and help you get the most value back for your renovations.
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