Your house is your home. But, it also likely one of your biggest investments. Maximizing its value just makes sense. If you go to sell it in the future, you will get the best return possible. And as a bonus, you get to enjoy the upgrades you make while still living there. Let’s look at five ways you can maximize the value of your Boise home.
Invest in Your Outdoor Space
People like to be outdoors, especially during the warmer months of the year. Making smart upgrades to your home’s outdoor space makes being outside more attractive. Upgrade or add a patio or deck, but don’t go overboard with high-maintenance items like elaborate flower beds. Use drought-tolerant ground covers instead of turf grass.
Make a Smart Addition
You would think that adding an addition to your home would pay off. The reality is a bit different. At resale, most homeowners do not recoup the costs of adding an addition to their home. The better option is to get more square footage than what you have. Creating additional living space from an unfinished basement is a good starting point. If you do choose to finish your basement, then you may want to invest in a home theater room. Theater rooms provide great resale value and greater enjoyment for those living in the home. Simply install recliner seating, room darkening curtains, soundproofing boards, and a high-definition projector screen.
Add a Home Security System
People want to feel safe and secure in their own homes. That remains true in even the safest neighborhoods. Adding a home security system will enhance this sense of safety and maximize the home’s value. Plus, it could bring discounts on homeowners insurance. Potential buyers will love the added sense of security for their families.
Update the Home’s Decor
Have an honest friend take a walk around your home. Ask their opinion about the decor. Does it feel up-to-date or is it something your great-grandmother would feel comfortable living in? Outdated decor will instantly turn off potential buyers. All they see is the work needed to bring the home into the 21st century. Keep in mind everything from the color of your walls to the sound your plumbing makes can have an impact on the value of your home, so you need brutal honesty. As you make improvements to your home, look for ways to add features that are both functional and beautiful to look at. For example, decorative sliding barn doors work as statement pieces in any room, and they also work to separate spaces, hide storage cabinets, and close off closets.
Improve Energy Efficiency
Improving energy efficiency is a priority these days with rising energy costs. Making upgrades to increase efficiency will pay off with lower utility bills and higher home value. Add additional insulation in the attic. Replace older windows with high-efficiency ones. Switch out incandescent bulbs for LEDs. Replace a tank water heater with a tankless model. Upgrade your 20-year-old heating and cooling system.
These improvements will help you get the most value out of your home. They will make your home more attractive to potential buyers and make your family more comfortable in the meantime.
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