Home Improvement Dos
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Home Improvement Don'ts
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Start with the outside and then work your way in.
- Plant mature trees, flowers and shrubs.
Younger plants cost less but you don't
have the time for their growth.
- Clean or paint the exterior. Power wash
your vinyl siding or paint any part that may
be in need of a fresh coat.
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New windows no matter how energy efficient they
are do not add to the value of your home. They
may entice the buyer to purchase your home over
another but you will not see a return on your
surrounding sills.
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The number one way to get not only more money
for your home, but receive a good return over what
is spent is to paint the interior. Warm, inviting,
neutral tones sell a home. A light hued neutral
paint can enlarge the appearance of your rooms
and be welcoming to your buyer.
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Central air conditioning is comfortable but does
not add value to your home. If you list your home
in the spring or fall when the weather is cooler,
your buyer may not even be reminded of the lack
of one. You will never get back on resale what it
takes to install this comfort.
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The areas of the home that demand the bulk of
your home improvement budget are bathrooms
and kitchens. It is much more difficult to sell a
home with one bathroom. If your spacing and
budget allow, consider adding a 1/2 bath on the
main living level of the home. Make sure the
vanities are updated and in good working
condition. A new contractor grade vanity with sink
and fixtures can be purchased for under $300at
your local home improvement store. With a fresh
coat of paint, you have a brand new bathroom.
Clean the shower and tub area thoroughly. Place
fresh caulking to give a new look.
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New hardwood flooring will not add value to your
home. Again, it may make your home more
attractive to a prospective buyer but it is not
justification for an increase in the sales price.
Spending money on cosmetic changes is fine to a
point. Luxury upgrades (swimming pools) and
fancy branded appliances never show any cause
to justify an increase to the sales price.
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Replace or reface kitchen cabinets. If you do the
work yourself, you can install new contractor
grade kitchen cabinets and new countertops for
under $3000 including all new appliances. Try
visiting local surplus stores. You want your
kitchen to be light and airy. Do not purchase top
of the line cabinets or appliances. There is not
need. You will never see a return on those
expensive items.
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Major remodels for the long term investment that
can add value to your home are:
- Garages and carports add considerable
value.
- If you do not have one, a fireplace adds
value.
- Bring the laundry room upstairs if it is in
the basement. Be careful not to deplete
too much kitchen or space from another
room.
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