Page 42 - Indulge April/May 2016
P. 42
though Invest in your kitchen
many home
improvement Kitchen remodels are a safe bet when it comes to
projects start out as a way remodeling or renovating. It’s usually the room where a
to increase functionality family spends a great deal of time, but a dated, poorly
and comfort, don’t functioning kitchen can detract from the value of a home
overlook their potential — even if the rest of the house is in good shape.
as an investment. Some
projects have a history of It’s possible to recoup between 60 and 120 percent
boosting a home’s value — of your kitchen remodel investment, especially if the
generating great returns kitchen matches up well with the rest of your home.
A deluxe renovation may not be necessary, because
relatively moderate improvements can create a whole new
look for a kitchen — helping maximize your profit at closing.
Look to paint
One of the least expensive improvement materials
also has a significant impact: paint. Neutral, modern
colors can easily liven up any space.
If you paint with low-VOC paint, you also can
advertise an eco-friendly home, which is very desirable
these days.
when the time comes to sell. Install another bathroom
Multiple bathrooms are an attractive selling
point, particularly in older homes that may have been
equipped with just one. Although finding extra space for
a bathroom can be tricky, consider closets, areas under
stairs, or taking space from an existing room.
A rule of thumb is that half-bathrooms require at least
18 square feet of space and full baths need 30 to 35
square feet for a stand-up shower or bathtub.
Renovate the HVAC system
Improvements in appliance efficiency not only provide
a “green” factor, they save money on utility bills. Many
homebuyers look for a new heating and cooling system,
as buyers understand that furnaces and air conditioning
units are substantial investments that can last for years.
Other improvements, such as adding attic insulation
or replacing older windows and doors with more energy-
efficient options, also are smart bets.
Put a deck addition outdoors
Outdoor living spaces have become more desirable,
especially as the “staycation” has grown in popularity.
Decks and patios can make back yards more appealing.
Improve curb appeal
Adding attractive landscaping and freshening up the
entryway to a home can add considerable value to your
home, as buyers judge homes by their exteriors.
Completely renovated interiors may never be seen if
buyers pass up your home because of a less attractive
exterior. Classy, subtle changes, such as well-placed
shrubbery and a green lawn, can work wonders. An inviting
front door and well-lit entryway also add curb appeal.
many home
improvement Kitchen remodels are a safe bet when it comes to
projects start out as a way remodeling or renovating. It’s usually the room where a
to increase functionality family spends a great deal of time, but a dated, poorly
and comfort, don’t functioning kitchen can detract from the value of a home
overlook their potential — even if the rest of the house is in good shape.
as an investment. Some
projects have a history of It’s possible to recoup between 60 and 120 percent
boosting a home’s value — of your kitchen remodel investment, especially if the
generating great returns kitchen matches up well with the rest of your home.
A deluxe renovation may not be necessary, because
relatively moderate improvements can create a whole new
look for a kitchen — helping maximize your profit at closing.
Look to paint
One of the least expensive improvement materials
also has a significant impact: paint. Neutral, modern
colors can easily liven up any space.
If you paint with low-VOC paint, you also can
advertise an eco-friendly home, which is very desirable
these days.
when the time comes to sell. Install another bathroom
Multiple bathrooms are an attractive selling
point, particularly in older homes that may have been
equipped with just one. Although finding extra space for
a bathroom can be tricky, consider closets, areas under
stairs, or taking space from an existing room.
A rule of thumb is that half-bathrooms require at least
18 square feet of space and full baths need 30 to 35
square feet for a stand-up shower or bathtub.
Renovate the HVAC system
Improvements in appliance efficiency not only provide
a “green” factor, they save money on utility bills. Many
homebuyers look for a new heating and cooling system,
as buyers understand that furnaces and air conditioning
units are substantial investments that can last for years.
Other improvements, such as adding attic insulation
or replacing older windows and doors with more energy-
efficient options, also are smart bets.
Put a deck addition outdoors
Outdoor living spaces have become more desirable,
especially as the “staycation” has grown in popularity.
Decks and patios can make back yards more appealing.
Improve curb appeal
Adding attractive landscaping and freshening up the
entryway to a home can add considerable value to your
home, as buyers judge homes by their exteriors.
Completely renovated interiors may never be seen if
buyers pass up your home because of a less attractive
exterior. Classy, subtle changes, such as well-placed
shrubbery and a green lawn, can work wonders. An inviting
front door and well-lit entryway also add curb appeal.
