Buying or selling a home is one of the hardest decisions anyone can ever make. You want a great space that will suit your everyday needs. And once you’re settled, you’ll probably want to make every inch of the place your own. So here’s a list of the top renovations you can do that will not only customize your space, they’ll also add value to your home.
Concentrate on the kitchen
People spend most of their time in the kitchen (cooking, entertaining), so it’s the first place where you should spend your renovation money. Look for customizable counters, like granite instead of laminate. There are plenty of inexpensive cupboard options at places like Ikea. Fixtures also matter. Reach for incredible sink faucets, like those from Delta. Opt for high-efficiency appliances from companies like Electrolux. These are all little things that will add value to your house when you are ready to sell it.
Finish an unfinished space
One of the best ways to up the value of your house is to create more of it. So if you have a large basement that’s unfinished, fix it up. Drywall the walls. Finish the ceiling. Add potlights. By adding square footage, you’ll end up with more useable space (and you’ll be able to ask for more money when it comes time to sell).
Look to the bathroom
Another place people spend a lot of time in is the bathroom. Another renovation idea that will add value to your house is to focus on redoing the bathroom sink or shower. That doesn’t mean you need to spend a lot of money. Places like Rona and Canadian Tire offer great suggestions on how to spruce up a bathroom space without breaking the bank.
Go energy efficient
The cost of oil, gas and hydro are going to keep going up, which is why so many people are opting for greener forms of power, like Bullfrog. Solar panels are even becoming de rigueur in high-income neighbourhoods. So look into making your home more energy efficient by getting new windows or buying appliances that waste less energy. Also, take the time to upgrade wiring or plumbing (outdated infrastructure will not only decrease the value of your home, it also makes it less insurable). As an added incentive, the Government of Canada now offers programs to help reduce costs of “greening” projects.
Maintain everything over time
Little things also matter when it comes to increasing the value of your home. When you’re painting, make sure you tape everything so baseboards or flooring don’t get covered in paint. Add trim or crown moulding where possible. Use lights, curtains and rugs to make your space feel comfortably lived in. And always keep your space clear of clutter or waste (Bagster Dumpster in a Bag, a handy new product, will help you clear your space of almost anything).
When you start looking into renovating certain areas of your house, remember to always think about what would add value first and foremost. Once the time come to sell your house, you’ll be happy you kept these tips top of mind!
More help for your home
Fluffing or Staging the House for Faster Sale
5 Inexpensive Ways to Renovate your Space
How to Make your Home More Energy Efficient
Leave a Comment