Ready to up the value of your home? Here are 6 projects to upgrade your home for more green in your pocket now and in the future.
Freshen Up Your Home’s Interior.
Time to grab your toolkit and head to YouTube. YouTube is full of tutorials empowering you to complete all kinds of home projects. From upgrading your hardware for a fresh and modern look to bringing new life to your walls and cabinets with a fresh coat of paint. These kinds of cosmetic improvements can be done in just a few days but spell a great deal of value toward your property.
Here’s another project to tackle: Few structural elements date a house more than popcorn ceilings. If you’re feeling up for it, dedicate a weekend to ditching the dated look and adding dollar signs to the value of your home. BEWARE: Some older ceilings could contain asbestos; have yours tested by professionals before undertaking this project. Remember, no matter what, wear protective masks and eyewear to keep the dust out of your lungs and eyes!
Visually Increase Your Square Footage.
The size of your home dramatically affects the value, but square footage isn’t the only space that counts. Visual space (how large a home feels) also counts. The key is to make each room in your house feel larger. Replacing heavy closed draperies with vertical blinds or shutters lets light in, making the room feel more open. Adding a single large mirror to a room visually doubles the space. Finally, clear the clutter. Clutter and furniture can really cramp a space. It may be time to Marie Kondo your life and add some significant value back.
Add Exterior Curb Appeal.
Paint also goes a long way on the exterior of your home. Painting your front door is a quick and simple project that instantly adds appeal to your home.
Over time, your driveway or front sidewalk becomes stained by leaves, mildew, or car leaks. Take advantage of a sunny afternoon and get outside to blow off and thoroughly power-wash these surfaces. Cleaning up stains will make it look nicer and breathe new life into your home!
Cut Energy Costs.
The amount of money you spend each month on energy costs may seem like a fixed amount. But you may be surprised to know many local utility companies provide free energy audits of their customers’ homes. They can teach you to maximize your energy efficiency. An energy-efficient home saves you money now, which you can put toward other updates and is a highly valuable and marketable asset in the long run.
Get Gardening.
If you aren’t planning to sell your house today, plan for the future with a landscaping improvement that will mature over time. Plant shade trees — not only will mature trees make your home more desirable, but a fully grown, properly placed tree can cut your cooling costs by as much as 40%.
No question that shrubs and colorful plants add curb appeal to any home, but when shopping at your local garden center, make sure that you “think green.” Plants native to your region or drought-tolerant require less water and maintenance, which means more savings for you and more green in your wallet.
Inspect It.
If you’re looking to target your home improvements, an inspector may be what you need. Not every home improvement is cosmetic. Deteriorating roofs, termite infestation, or outdated electrical systems — some fixes are invisible! Hiring an inspector to check out the areas you don’t normally see helps you discover hidden problems negatively impacting your home’s value.
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