Even if you’ve invested in luxury items and upgrades for your home these may not be what buyers are looking for when deciding to purchase a home. If you’re going to invest in some improvements, you might as well include such improvements that will directly benefit a sale. Here are ten home improvement resolutions you should consider for 2014:
1. Indoor Systems
Before you consider purely cosmetic improvements, take a look at your indoor systems. It’s worth it to at least have a home inspector make the rounds and point out any issues that should be taken care of now. Consider the following:
- Plumbing (esp. older pipes and fixtures)
- Electrical systems
- Sewer systems
- Heating and cooling systems (including furnaces and any window units you plan to leave)
2. Exterior Updates
Start with a simple roof inspection to determine if there are any significant problems. Take care of even minor updates such as replacing loose shingles. According to Remodeling Magazine, the average return on investment on external improvements is about 70 percent. Additional exterior updates include:
- Garage doors
- Windows
- Doors
- Siding
3. Transform the Attic
Consider turning your attic into a small bedroom by adding some lighting and a skylight. Fully converting an attic into a bedroom is a major investment, but these are updates that are especially appealing to home buyers looking for extra usable space.
4. Add an Extra Bathroom
Many homeowners look for added baths when weighing the decision to purchase a home. If a full bath is too expensive, consider adding a half-bath or updating existing bathrooms.
5. Spruce Up the Kitchen
Anything you can do to update your kitchen is going to add some value to your home. If you have vinyl flooring, for example, think about replacing it with affordable and versatile laminate. Additional kitchen spruces to consider:
- Fixtures
- Lighting
- Appliances
6. Cleanup the Landscape
Curb appeal is a big selling point. Take some time to remove clutter from your yard. This should include trimming hedges, cutting the grass, filling in bare spots and checking walkways for cracks.
7. Re-Purpose the Basement
A basement can be turned into an entertainment room or play area. If that’s not in the budget, add some outlets and maybe some carpeting to create a cozy atmosphere.
8. More Storage Options
Older homes in particular tend to lack significant storage space. Add another closet or two. If that’s not possible, add some extra shelving.
9. Add Square Footage
While adding some square footage to your home isn’t something you can do instantly, it does add appeal to your home. Even adding a greenhouse or extending a porch can add some value.
10. Odds and Ends
If major updates aren’t in the budget, making a few smaller changes can be just as effective. Some odds and ends to consider:
- Adding a dishwasher
- Installing a home alarm system
- Adding a water filtration system
- Replacing outdated fixtures with energy-efficient versions
