Your home is likely the biggest investment you’ll ever make, and you stand to make a decent profit whenever you decide to sell.
So, when it comes to getting the most money from your home, understanding how to add on to your house can mean the difference between a sweet profit and a disappointment.
Read on to learn about the top home improvement projects you should do to increase the value of your home.
Update the Kitchen
In terms of resale value, an updated, modern kitchen is one of the most important items that will increase your asking price. Consider replacing older laminate counters with a solid surface like granite or quartz.
A set of new stainless steel appliances can do wonders for the look and function of your kitchen. Upgrade the flooring and give it a cohesive look that matches cabinet and countertop colors.
If your sink looks like it has seen better days, consider updating it to a nice, deep farmhouse sink. Don’t forget to replace the fixtures, too.
You don’t need to go overboard when it comes to the kitchen. A fresh coat of paint on the walls and cabinets and a new tile backsplash might be all you need to entice buyers.
How to Add on to Your House: Create an Outdoor Living Space
For homeowners who love to entertain, there’s nothing better than a welcoming outdoor area. Consider adding on a deck to your home if you have the room.
The curb appeal is the first thing that buyers will see, so a new coat of paint or some new Hardie siding can do wonders for the look of the home. Even older homes can benefit from new siding or new paint colors.
You can also create an awesome outdoor kitchen with a nice grill that potential buyers will love. Add a pergola for a low-cost way to provide shade a defined space for entertaining and hanging out.
If you have the budget, a sunroom is another excellent addition. You can even add a simple building like a shed or workspace that will make the outside much more functional.
Even a fresh landscape design will give your home tons of personality. It’s easy to think of the interior when it comes to home additions, but don’t neglect the outside and be sure to at least spruce things up.
Make Things Energy Efficient
In terms of value, making your home more energy efficient is highly appealing to buyers. Consider upgrading your old single-pane windows to a double-pane style with a Low-E coating.
Take a close look at the insulation in your attic, and try to find out what would work best to get more effective heat and cold air retention. Even a new, programmable thermostat can do wonders for your energy bill.
A new, high-quality front and back entrance door will not only make your home look great, but it will also increase the energy efficiency factor. If you don’t want to replace the doors, consider filling gaps and adding new weatherstripping.
Remember that any buyer is going to hire a home inspector before they decide to purchase your home. You might as well add a few energy-efficient features ahead of time that will increase the value and the overall appeal to new buyers.
Have a plumber inspect your water heater to make sure that it’s in good working order. The average lifespan of a water heater is anywhere from 10-15 years, so it may be time for a replacement.
These simple updates will give your home a more eco-friendly functionality. Today’s buyers are looking to save on both energy costs and the environment, so it’s a solid investment with a potentially great return.
Consider Adding a Bathroom
If you’re wondering how to add on to your house, a new bathroom is a surefire way to get more money. Most buyers today require a minimum of two full baths, and a half-bath or powder room is an added bonus.
If you have a spare room or utility area you’re not using, this would be the perfect space for a bathroom addition. Even a small closet or storage area within the home would make the perfect powder room.
Bathroom additions are fairly affordable, with new plumbing, tubs, showers, and vanities being the biggest part of the investment. A new coat of paint and window treatments can make the new bathroom look luxurious once everything is installed.
You can find most components of a bathroom at any hardware or home improvement store. Shop around for the best prices so you can update the room on a budget.
The true cost comes with the labor that involves new plumbing and installation of the fixtures. It’s still a smart choice if you really want to add on to your home and make a decent return.
The key to any addition you make is the level of functionality it will bring to buyers. A new bathroom is certainly one that will enhance the value of your home and give it a value that can only appreciate over time.
There’s Value in Additions
Whether you need to increase curb appeal with new siding or create a whole new room, it’s essential that you know how to add on to your house in a way that will bring the most value. Talk to a professional who can guide you through the process and make some helpful recommendations.
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