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It’s always a good idea to renovate some rooms in your house if you are looking to sell. I want you to remember to SELL IT RIGHT, which means doing the upgrades and renovations properly for your homebuyer. It means staying away from “lipstick and mascara” fixes that are covering up major issues with the house. If you have wisely budgeted for bigger remodeling projects, here are some home renovations that will instantly add value to your home:

Outdoor Structures

• Fences: A new fence will add more privacy and keep kids safe. It can also have an impact on your curb appeal. It can have a positive impact on the value of your home.
• Deck: Depending on the material, size, and scope of the project, you can see upwards of an 80% of the price of the deck reflected in the new value of the home.
• Fire Pit: Fire pits are a nice, cozy way to increase the usability of your yard in the cooler months. This CAN add real value for potential buyers.

Even though they’re outdoor structures – you need to take care of them like they’re part of your main home.

A Full Bathroom Remodel

Bathroom and kitchen renovations are the most popular home improvement projects. You can expect to recover 75% of your investment. Replacing an outdated vanity, old plumbing and lighting fixtures or adding a new tile floor — will guarantee a lot of bang for your buck and give your bath an updated, modern look. If you are considering a full bathroom remodel, you will be looking at changing the flooring, the vanity, shower, tub and toilet. Make energy efficient updates, as they will be good for your home’s resale value. Using KERDI-BOARD is brilliant because it creates a continuous line of moisture resistance, helping prevent mould issues. And a high quality, uncoupling and waterproof system below your tiles is also an absolute must if you want your renovation to last. I also like the idea of tiling the whole bathroom.

Replacing Old Windows

New windows can freshen up the appearance of your home, and replacing existing windows with energy efficient ones can save the homeowner a significant amount of money in heating and cooling costs. Drafty windows can turn off potential buyers. If you choose the most energy efficient windows, it is possible that the installation cost will be offset by how much you save over time on your heating and cooling.

Attic Insulation

Adding attic insulation will lead to cost savings as well as cut your monthly energy bills. This is undoubtedly being attractive to potential home buyers. If they notice ice dams as they walk up to your home that will be a red flag for them. You’ve got a few options when it comes to insulating material, but whether it’s blown-in insulation, foam board, or spray foam, you need to provide enough R-Value, or insulating value to keep the cool air from coming in.

Roof Replacement

How do you know it’s time for a new roof? Take a look up – are your shingles buckling, curled, or missing altogether? That’s a sign it’s time to re-shingle. Consider solar panels as well. Buyers may hesitate to have them installed themselves, but will be attracted to houses where the solar panels are installed already. I like a metal roof – and it pairs well with solar panels, because odds are, you won’t have to do a roof replacement before the lifespan of the panels end. As long as you choose your material carefully, have it installed properly, and choose a roofing system with a good warranty, you’ll have a good roof.

Embrace Smart Home Technology

We are talking about smart devices like security cameras, smart locks, smart thermostats and water leak detectors. This is an easy upgrade and market research indicates that homebuyers are looking for smart devices in a home for convenience, energy management and enhanced security. An Encode Smart Deadbolt is a great feature to add to your exterior door for convenience and security.

Kitchen Remodel

A kitchen remodel, if done right, is sure to add to the value of your house. You will enjoy an even higher return if you are remodeling an older, outdated kitchen. This will include upgrading your cabinets, your stove and refrigerator, your flooring and even your sinks and faucets.

For aging population, kitchen’s functionality and accessibility is becoming more and more important. For example, lowered light switches, countertops and cabinets can make it easier for someone older or with a disability to navigate around the kitchen if they are in a wheelchair. Cabinets installed with a hydraulic system can allow a homeowner to easily move them up and down, ensuring they’re accessible no matter your mobility level.