What Renovations have the Best Resale Value?

Homeowners and buyers look at a home very differently. Neglecting to look at a remodeling project from a buyer’s perspective can result in money lost when it is time to sell your home.

Which projects will have the biggest bang for the buck? Our experts outline which renovations will improve your home’s resale value, no matter your budget…and what projects to stay away from.
Before You Begin a Renovation

In general, the top two areas to renovate include the kitchen and bath. The third most important involves adding energy efficient upgrades to your home. However, these projects can be very expensive if done to their full potential.

To account for all budgets, we’ve organized our experts’ suggestions by budget range. Note, some upgrades can be made suitable for any budget, but we organized the renovations based on the maximum potential of that project.

Before you begin any project, keep the following points in mind:

1. Homeowner preferences vary by geographic region, so knowing what the tastes are of buyers in your area will influence which projects have the best resale value. One good resource is Remodeling Magazine’s annual Cost vs. Value report, which allows homeowners to compare national and regional averages.

2. Look at your neighborhood and make sure that any work you do will not make your home “the most expensive” on the block. Do a comparative analysis of homes in your area and see what they have that you don’t. Avoid projects that will move your home out of the price segment for comparable homes in your area.

3. Consider your home’s architecture as a whole. Make sure remodels fit with the design of your house. For example, if you have a 19th century historic home, adding a euro modern bathroom will be inconsistent. Make sure upgrades fit seamlessly.

4. Though homeowners get really excited about trends, home buyers are more resistant to change. Thus, stick with a classic, neutral design to get the biggest bang for the buck. Personal touches should be added in non-permanent features, such as accessories, paint color (easy to change when selling), and art.

Now that you are equipped with the knowledge needed to take on a remodeling project, here is the breakdown of the top remodeling projects that will improve the resale value of your home:

Small Budget Renovations (Free – $2000)

Remove Clutter and Organize
Clutter can significantly influence how a space looks. By removing clutter and organizing your home, you can make it look instantly larger.

Clean Up
Similar to de-cluttering, cleaning your home can turn a space from dingy to new. Here are some examples: cleaning grout, scouring the stove and bathtub, and removing carpet or flooring stains.

Reorganize Furniture
Well-proportioned furniture that creates a welcoming flow throughout the home is essential. This is particularly important if you are selling your home. Research proper proportions and transform a room simply by moving things around.

Depersonalize When Ready to Sell
When home buyers are on the hunt for their perfect house, they want to be able to envision themselves in a prospective home. If there is too much personality in a space, it will make it difficult for them to use their imagination. To depersonalize your home, remove excessive accessories and family photos, taste-specific art, and collections.

Paint and Revitalize
Color can completely transform a space. For just a few hundred dollars, you can change the tone and feel of a room. A space that was once stark white can be turned into a warm, inviting oasis through color. Besides being one of the most easy and affordable renovations to accomplish, it is also one of the easiest to change later on.

Add Lighting & Window Covers
Bare windows can appear uninviting, while a lack of lighting covers can make a space seem unfinished. Make sure to cover bulbs (especially in recessed lighting fixtures) and add switch plates. Similarly, adding complementary window covers can make a space seem homey and cozy, which is important if you want to sell your home.

Upgrade your Hardware
Hardware is one of those little fixes that can have a big impact. When you find yourself saying, “something just isn’t right here,” chances are, a hardware upgrade is needed. Hardware upgrades to consider include kitchen and bath cabinets, towel racks, and door knobs.

Upgrade your Fixtures
Similar to hardware, fixtures can have a big impact on the look and feel of a space. By simply replacing a few lighting and plumbing fixtures, you can instantly make a room look modern. Avoid taste-specific styles and look for simple silhouettes and clean lines.

Pressure Wash Walkways & Siding
Just as you can transform the inside of your home by cleaning, you can significantly improve your home’s curb appeal by cleaning the outside of it as well. Renting a power washer can make walkways, driveways, patios, and siding look years newer than they are. Unless there is structural damage, consider power washing these problems areas before replacing, because oftentimes a heavy-duty cleaning is all you need.

Moderate Budget Renovations ($2000 – $10,000)

Add Crown Molding
Crown molding can add a “wow” factor that sets your home apart from the rest. It instantly defines a space and adds character, which lets the personality of your home shine through.

Add Storage
Home buyers and homeowners are consumers, so we have a lot of stuff. Adding storage to your home can not only help you stay organized, but it will allow the next homeowner to be organized as well. Storage to consider are built-ins, pantries, walk-in closets, garage shelving, and wall benches that double as chests.

Redefine a Space
Sometimes rearranging the layout of your home can transform a space. Consider creating open living spaces by removing non-load bearing walls, such as the walls dividing the kitchen, living room, and dining area.

Invest in Energy Upgrades
Making your home sustainable doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Small changes that have a big impact can significantly improve the resale value of your home. This includes switching to energy efficient lighting, using sustainable materials where you can, and investing in Energy Star appliances.

Hardwood Flooring
Now, adding hardwood flooring can easily become a large budget project, but it can definitely be affordable depending on the size of the space, materials used, and labor hired. Hardwood is the most sought after flooring material by home buyers, so removing carpets and unsightly linoleum will not only transform your home, but add to the resale value as well. Laminate is one of the most affordable options, where cork and bamboo are the most sustainable. Research material and installation (can you DIY?) costs, and weigh it against your desire for green options and quality.

Update Electrical System
The wiring in your home is rarely thought about unless there is an immediate problem. However, it can sneak up on homeowners during inspections. Consider hiring an electrical inspector to evaluate the condition of your wiring. You may also want to consult with a professional about sustainable electrical options.

Large Budget Renovations (Over $10,000)

Curb Appeal
First impressions are important, so any renovation you can make to improve the outside of your home is worth the price. Consider the following to add to the value of your home: new siding, updated roof, front door accessories (new address numbers, mailbox, kick plates, welcome mats, window boxes, shutters, etc.), and simple, streamlined, low-maintenance landscaping. Another project to consider is adding an outdoor living space, such as decks, patios, lounges, and entertainment areas. This adds to the livable space your home offers, making it jump in value.

Re-purpose Existing Spaces
Home buyers, in general, want to avoid major remodeling projects. By finishing spaces such as attics and basements and converting them into functional areas, you can significantly add to the livable square footage in your home.

Bathroom Remodel
An extensive remodel will cost a minimum of $10,000. However, know it is possible to renovate your bathroom for around $3000 (DIY is a must for this price range). One area in particular to focus on is the master suite. Popular choices for master suites include storage, large showers, and separate tubs. Aesthetically, stick to neutral, streamlined materials and fixtures.

Kitchen Remodel
The kitchen is said to be the heart of the home, and many of our experts categorize this as the number one remodel to boost your home’s value. The big ticket items will be counters (look for neutral granites and stones), cabinets, and appliances. That price will significantly increase if you need to add on flooring and reorganize the flow of the room (including knocking down walls, moving plumbing/gas, etc.). A typical complete kitchen remodel will cost approximately $40,000, and that is on the low end.

Need affordable kitchen upgrade options? Consider changing the back splash, paint color, hardware, and lighting in the space. These are the most affordable remodels, and they can have a huge impact. Note, cabinets can be an affordable fix, but this usually requires refacing and DIY rather than replacing altogether.

Energy Efficiency Overhaul
Investing in energy efficient remodels is expensive in the short term, but it will pay itself off in the long run when it comes to reduced utility bills and increased home value. Options to consider include insulating your home, replacing old windows with their energy efficient alternatives, installing solar panels, and adding a gray water system.

Remodels That DECREASE Your Home’s Value

Some projects are great for the homeowner, but can actually decrease the value of your home. Approach the following projects with caution:

1. Pools

2. Murals, stenciling, decorative plastering, and other permanent art

3. Over-the-top chandeliers and lighting

4. Expensive garage additions

5. Sun Rooms (opt for decks/outdoor living spaces instead)

6. Home Offices (It’s okay to turn a bedroom into an office for your own use, but don’t create a room specifically for working at home)

7. Using cheap, low-quality materials and shoddy construction

This article was originally posted on the eLocal.com blog.