Adding Value to Your Home


Many people remodel with an eye toward increasing the value of their homes. While this is not the sole reason for the remodeling, it is always a factor in the choices people make during a remodeling effort. Will it make buyers look more closely at the home? The answer is, “probably.”

Reasons for remodeling range from updating a 20-year-old kitchen to having some extra money around that year. Updating a home not only will help you to sell it more quickly and for a better price than if it wasn’t remodeled, it will also make it more comfortable for you and your family to live. Of course, when it comes time to sell your home, if it’s a buyer’s choice between an upgraded home and a dated one, you will have the advantage.

The most common upgrades:

  •  Kitchens and baths – If you want to make your home more appealing, know your audience. It’s a fact that women are the primary buyers of new homes. Women buy and men follow. Spacious, luxurious kitchens and bathrooms are eye-catching. Practical and innovative storage solutions are also attractive.
  • Wood floors – Choose hard wood instead of carpeting. Today’s homeowners prefer the simplicity and beauty of wood floors. Not only are they attractive and durable, they are easy to clean.
  • Open areas – If you’re remodeling and can include open areas such as a great room or a two-story foyer, go for it! Knocking down walls to open an area makes it seem more spacious, allows more natural light, and is great for entertaining.
  • Master suites – Adding a master bedroom suite with a sitting area and adjoining bathroom is a nice luxury both for you and for the home sale. It makes your home your sanctuary, and gives you the benefit of a quiet respite from everyday craziness.

While all remodeling efforts are linked to the state of the economy, so are the sales of those remodeled homes. No matter the economy, a remodeled home sells for more money and much more quickly. Evaluate your needs and your economic condition, and make decisions accordingly.