Now that property values are rebounding and mortgage lenders are starting to loosen the purse strings, you may be exploring the idea of selling your house. If so then you're likely looking to make some improvements to help bolster the value before you put it on the market. These six home improvements will make a big difference toward adding value to your home without putting a dent in your wallet.
Refinish or Replace
Refinishing or replacing entry doors and cabinet doors is a simple, inexpensive improvement that can give your house an entirely new look. Wood doors and cabinets can be stripped and repainted relatively inexpensively. Alternatively, you can replace the existing doors and cabinets with new ones.
Either way, your home will take on an entirely different look afterwards for a fraction of the cost of a full remodeling job. Depending on the amount of cabinets and doors, professional refinishing or replacement may cost a few thousand dollars, while do-it-yourself projects can be accomplished for considerably less.
Walls
You can change the whole personality of your home simply by repainting the interior and exterior walls. Not only will this provide a crisp, clean look to your home it can also make an older home look less aged, improving the value to potential buyers.
While using bright, bold colors might provide a dramatic improvement to a particular room, you risk turning away potential buyers who may not like the color choice.It's better to utilize neutral colors including beige, ivory, taupe, black, gray, and white in order to maximize appeal to a larger group of potential buyers. Paint is available from home improvement stores like Lowes or Home Depot for as little as $10 per gallon.
Windows
Taking out older windows and putting in new windows is a great way to add value to your home. Double paned and energy efficient windows offer great tax incentives for you when you buy them and have them installed, increasing the home's value for the person who decides to buy it. After you put in the new windows, installing some high quality window blinds or shades helps increase the house's aesthetic appeal that much more. Remember—first impressions go a long way. Having those little details is what makes a fantastic first impression.
Landscape
The sky is the limit when it comes to landscaping. Something as simple and inexpensive as planting a few flower boxes around your front door can dramatically alter the appearance and value of your home. You can also plant flowers, shrubs, bushes, and trees throughout your yard. Useful flora such as fruit trees will help add considerable value to your home as well. Shop around at various nurseries in your area to get a good idea of the best plants for your climate as well as their prices.
You may also want to consider replacing your walkway or lining it with plants or lights, or even erecting a decorative fence. Patio and walkway stones can be purchased for as little as $1.00 per square foot while fencing can cost as little as $5 per foot.
Floor Coverings
Stained carpet and cracked or worn out linoleum, tile or wooden flooring can all reduce the value of your home. Like walls, replacing you home's floor coverings will result in a dramatic new look and add value for potential buyers. Most floor coverings, including vinyl, carpet, laminate, and tile are available for $1.00 per square foot or less, while hardwood will usually cost between $2.00 and $5.00 per square foot.
Regardless of the size of your budget completing any of these improvements can alter the look and personality of your home while adding value to it, all without breaking the bank.
