If you own a home, it’s likely your biggest and longest-term investment. Whether you’re sprucing up your home to sell or planning a renovation for personal reasons, even relatively minor changes can net you some big gains in home value. So what areas should you focus on to get the most efficient return on your reno dollar? Here’s how to make smart home investments and avoid fixes that can fall flat.
DO: Install an energy-efficient steel door. Selling your home is all about making a good first impression, and first impressions start at the front door.
DON’T: Install a fiberglass front door. The higher cost won’t mean a higher sale price.
DO: Add a spare room. Converting unused basement or attic space into an extra bedroom opens your home to exponentially more buyers.
DON’T: Add an extra bathroom. Plumbing, wiring and tiling make these small spaces extremely expensive add-ons. (However, if your home has only one bathroom, adding a powder room can be a major selling feature.)
DO: Paint. The cheapest and easiest way to refresh a room is with a new coat of paint. If you do it yourself, the only cost will be for paint and brushes.
DON’T: Wallpaper. Anyone who’s had to remove old wallpaper knows what a dreadful task it can be.
DO: Replace cabinet hardware. Changing the handles in the kitchen and bathroom is a cheap and easy way to add some flair.
DON’T: Remodel your home office. Many buyers will look at built-in shelving and desks as something they’ll have to spend money on converting back to a bedroom.
DO: Landscape your property. A mix of hardy perennials and some vibrant low-cost annuals will give your home that all-important curb appeal.
DON’T: Install an in-ground pool. Many buyers will balk at the ongoing maintenance and be fearful of long-term repair and replacement costs.
DO: Make minor repairs. Scour your house from top to bottom for chipped paint, missing or cracked outlet covers to replace and so on. These low-cost DIY tasks will reap untold rewards.
DON’T: Add a sunroom. They’re expensive to install and, when dated, buyers will be leery of the cost of replacing aging windows.
DO: Upgrade your appliances. Energy-efficient ones may qualify for a tax credit or rebate (check out this state-by-state directory of available energy incentives), and you’ll cut back on your utility bills for as long as you’re in the house.
DON’T: Add a backup generator. While the peace of mind may help you weather any storm, buyers typically will not pay a premium for this addition.
Speaking of smart investments, did you know you could get affordable homeowners insurance through the GEICO Insurance Agency? Get a fast and free quote today.
Read more: 9 Garage Upgrades That Could Increase Your Home’s Value
By Allan Britnell
Jason Jehosephat says,
“DON’T: Install an in-ground pool. Many buyers will balk at the ongoing maintenance and be fearful of long-term repair and replacement costs.” Well, that’s silly. Obviously, people who don’t want a pool won’t want to pay for one. But people who do want one will be very interested and will not only be willing pay for one, they’ll be looking to.
Drew Harrison says,
I had no idea wallpaper was a “Don’t”. I thought maybe retro was coming back into style. I suppose with homes it’s a little different. Great post!
Will says,
What about a 3 bedroom house with 1 bath, turning a 2 car garage into a master suite?
Fitz says,
Hello, and thank you very much for this information on the do’s and don’ts of remodeling different parts of your house. There are many reasons why it’s important to have a good understanding of what to do when during a renovation. I think it’s always good to research and find new ideas and things to do to improve the quality of your remodel.
Daisydog says,
Dang, more of the usual. I I was hoping i would say….
DO: Build a 30 foot deep moat around your house…
Wes says,
As long as you do a project every weekend whether it be repairing, replacing, or remodeling… you will have a fabulous looking home in no time. I do all my own work which includes electrical, plumbing, floors, walls, framing, concrete, landscaping you name it. It’s all easy to do, except electrical… hire an electrician if you don’t know what your doing. You can search the DYI forums for advice and ideas from other dyi’ers.
Dianne Finnegan says,
My 115yr old house is taking it’s time but we have replaced an outdated heating system, upgraded electrical, and painted the entire inside of the house. Now the big work starts. I pulled up the carpeting only to discover HUGE areas that are black underneath. We learned that way back when, there were such things as Linoleum Carpets – so now the sanding starts. I plan to stain everything with teak oil. I did my antique front door with it last year and it’s just perfect. We also installed a handrail to the upstairs after I fell and broke a wrist – just one of the drawbacks of buying an old house sometimes. . . I am working on the gardens too – it helps break up he monotony of all the slow moving repairs. Seeing a garden full of flowers brings color and brightness to the outside of our home.
Ed Benson says,
What about adding solar power to your home, is that a do or don’t?
mbh says,
It depends on where you live. Some states have some impressive rebate programs. Contact a couple of solar companies in your area for a no-cost consultation and bid. I live in CA and my home is not a candidate for solar – so be careful and talk with a qualified representative.
Guille says,
Great advice, thanks.
jt says,
If you live in a high-end area with a low-end house, do nothing as it will be bulldozed. Dump with survey markers in place sold for $400,000 instantly. Very smart owners.
Virginia Seidita says,
Thank you very much for all The information you give the world every day. I’m certain many people, as I do, rely on and appreciate it. It’s variety and the fact that I can acquire so much knowledge so quickly is just wonderful.
This article is another example. I didn’t have to keep clicking a lot of fluff.
Rhys Rawson says,
Thanks for the information. I’m surprised to hear that updating my appliances will pay off financially in the long-run. They seem so expensive, but if they will save me money on utilities, it might be worth it. Do you have any other tips for me?
JAne becnel says,
my dream renovation is simply knocking out both back kitchen windows and putting a utility room there. It’s too cold in winter to have to go in the garage to wash & dry clothes!
Darold Hagerman says,
I have done & finished most of these projects. I know not who hasHomeowners ins, car etc.added new addition. Needs more insulation who can do this with out some one trying to rob you.
When built R 30 was supposedly put in attic. Needed same in garage. Called company to give estimate , told me Ionly had r19.
Have paper and signature of County official who received payoff..
Housei is immaculate. Just put two new baths in.
DRH
Gus Chiggins says,
It looks like this guy is working hard at a kitchen remodeling project. When I had mine remodeled, it took about 3 weeks to complete the process. I was so happy to know that I had an up-to-date design, and positive atmosphere in my home. My wife told me it was the most affordable remodel she’d ever seen before.
John k says,
Thanks for info. Will have old generator removed.