home improvement ideas Archives

YouTube Videos To Inspire Your Home Renovation Project

Written By: Holli McCray

Be it an older home that needs some upgrades or a newer place that’s missing that special feel, home renovations can turn a drab domicile into a fabulous new abode. Strategic home renovations can add value to the home for future resale while giving the owners the dream home they’ve always wanted. They can also provide a living environment you can’t wait to come home to!

Unfortunately, the glut of home remodeling TV shows and programming don’t typically capture the full amount of effort needed to get the results you’re wanting. They’re made for entertainment purposes and not as a resource to help you complete home renovation projects. And while we recommend hiring professional help when taking on projects that you’re not familiar with, these YouTubers provide some great ideas and inspiration to get more out of your home.

Check out our list below, and be sure to watch the videos for home renovation ideas…

Homemade Home

What to look for: How a lost cause home can be brought back up to snuff.

Tiny homes have become exponentially more popular over the past few years. But as this particular YouTube video shows, not all tiny homes look like the ones you see in online lists or demos of such properties. Please keep in mind that the renovations in this video aren’t recommended for beginners (unless you’ve at least got some professional help in your back pocket!)

Watch: https://youtu.be/zBCbbXlVOhs

House of Valentina

What to look for: How to address older features and make them current.

This YouTuber wanted to show viewers how the insides of an older home can be made over with the most contemporary tastes in mind. The real lesson in this video is that underneath a home’s dated looks, there’s likely a solid foundation and unique features worth saving.

Watch: https://youtu.be/ooTvWuVxTTE

Alexandra Gater

What to look for: How to work within tight confines and non-ideal conditions without having to gut the whole space.

Can one get more space out of their home? They can with some careful planning and clever tricks. Those tricks might include tossing out the original purpose of certain rooms, and playing to a home’s natural strengths. That’s kind of the great thing about this particular YouTube video, is that it shows how that can be done without overcomplicating things.

Watch: https://youtu.be/wxz37DF5DzU

Austin Flipsters

Great for: Showing viewers how to make the updates that they’re dreading.

Another YouTube channel that shows what a master renovator can do. The videos on this channel are made by seasoned pros and offer some great process shots and education on how they’ve pulled off their latest reno. The videos from the “Austin Flipsters” are also incredibly eye-catching and recommendable for people who are even slightly interested in how the remodeling process might work.

Watch: https://youtu.be/6Lj54C0KPck

William McNeil

What to look for: How one should preserve classic styles in homes.

The aesthetic of some homes just shouldn’t be messed with. And for those homes that got it right the first time, this YouTube video figures out the right marriage between great, older places and the need for a fresh dwelling.

Watch: https://youtu.be/JkASmC1ZVss

Kaylah Stroup

What to look for: How to update older, bigger homes.

When purchasing a home renovation project, some buyers will go for the older, bigger homes that they long to repair to their former glory. This video provides commentary on what to do when one discovers a home’s features or how a buyer may properly honor the history of a bought home.

Watch: https://youtu.be/1fbxyseWWjQ

BeeNeh Builds

What to look for: How to get the most with the least.

Even at a great price, homebuyers may regret certain parts of their purchase. What matters is that they keep the right perspective by staying focused on the home’s overall potential. This video shows a housing nightmare, and how a novice home buyer might be able to turn a bad situation into a great one.

Watch: https://youtu.be/lQBc2UtpUco

Now, Go Get Started!

With some effort, research, and some great ideas, anyone can make the upgrades they want to their home. Starting with a sound home improvement plan is the first step toward achieving the results that you want. Once that plan is in place, take a steady approach to avoid getting overwhelmed. Tackle one project at a time…

If you’re in the market for a fixer-upper or need to get in touch with some Knoxville-area contractors to help start your renovation project, don’t hesitate to contact us!

3 Smart Home Improvement Projects

Written By: Holli McCray

Most people take on home improvement projects for 2 reasons… The first is to improve their living situation. This can be something as simple as painting a few walls to as extensive as adding on an addition to accommodate more living or working space. The other motivation behind most home improvement projects is to improve the resale value of one’s home. A smart investment in updating and remodeling a home can yield thousands in additional profit at the closing table.

That said, it’s important to make sure that the improvements you’re making to your home fit the current trends buyers are looking for when purchasing a home. New home improvement trends occur every few years… Knowing these trends cannot only create a wonderful space for you to enjoy but can also put your home at the top of buyers’ lists when it comes time to sell.

Finish and Remodel The Basement

Livable basement space is in high demand these days. A space for the kids to play away from the adults, a quiet place for a home office, or a dark spot to watch a family movie are all high on many homebuyers’ “wish lists”. When finishing/remodeling your basement, the added value, and benefit typically outweigh the costs to complete. Before you get started, make sure that your basement is encapsulated and/or sealed before adding any drywall to avoid any moisture buildup that could result in mold growth.

Other things to consider are replacing the electric wiring and ensuring that it is up to date. Adding a light neutral paint color can bring a bright and spacious feel. Use light fixtures that match the rest of the home. Designer carpet squares, stained concrete, and engineered hardwood are all in demand right now and can offer a high-end elegant look for your basement.

Basement remodel projects can take months to complete, but it adds an unbeatable resale value and provides countless options for enjoyment inside your home.

Update and Maintain Your HVAC

HVAC is your home’s heating, cooling, and ventilation system. When done correctly, it keeps your home’s interior temperature at an efficient and accurate level. It will also keep from paying unnecessary utility costs to properly heat and cool the home. When it comes to selling your home, a new and/or properly maintained HVAC system will provide reassurance to the buyer that they won’t be inheriting any expensive issues when they move in. The problem is that most people don’t check on these issues, and it causes the HVAC system to deteriorate faster and not work properly. That said, if you have a system that is more than ten years old, we highly recommend upgrading your HVAC to a new more efficient system.

When it comes to your home’s ductwork, having it cleaned routinely can not only improve the longevity of your system, you will also have cleaner air running through your home. For those who have allergies, this should absolutely be part of your home maintenance plan.

If you do decide to install a new system, choose one with a high energy-efficient rating, confirm it’s the right size, and add a heat pump. If you choose a unit that is too tiny, it will have to work harder to reach the right temperature, which will reduce the life of the unit and cause frustration when your home isn’t remaining at the desired temperature. Additionally, units that are too large will cause you to have higher utility costs that are not necessary.

From a resale standpoint, homebuyers may not notice a new cabinet, but they will notice an old HVAC system, and it can cost you top-dollar. While being a more expensive project, installing a new HVAC system generally adds substantial value to a home.

Proper Insulation

Insulation is a crucial component for every house. Adding the proper insulation remains one of the best and easiest home improvement projects that homeowners should complete to add value and quality to their home. Though the costs of proper insulation have risen recently, it will save you loads of money in reduced energy costs. In a single year, you can save hundreds of dollars in utility expenses!

There are many different areas of a house to insulate properly though the most common are the basement, exterior doors, and attic. Pay close attention to the R-value of your insulation. The R-value is how much your insulation will resist heat flow. The higher the R-Value, the more effective the insulation. Foam insulation is also recommended, especially in attics because it is very energy efficient and is water-resistant if you happen to have any moisture in the attic. For those who have stone and mortar walls (particularly in the basement), polyurethane foam is best on these types of surfaces.

When you go to sell your home, make sure to mention that you have energy-efficient insulation installed in the marketing. This will not only make your home more appealing to homebuyers but will also help them justify paying a higher price.

If you need help completing any home improvement projects, don’t hesitate to contact us. Over the years, we have vetted dozens of contractors, so we can recommend a reliable company to work with.

And if you need some guidance on what home improvement projects make sense for your home in today’s market, we’re happy to help! We can provide some ideas that will improve your home’s resale value even if you aren’t planning to sell right now.

Gardening For Home & Lifestyle

Gardening for Home & Lifestyle

Written By: Holli McCray

Spring has sprung in Knoxville, which means it time to get out those gloves, trowels, rakes, and wheelbarrows! Getting outside and planting a garden is a fantastic way to get away from all the struggle and negativity in the world right now. If you’re like me and don’t have much of a “green thumb”, we provided some tips and ideas below on how to get started…

Deciding which type of garden you want to grow depends on the lifestyle you want to live. Some gardens require daily work, whereas others can be quite low maintenance. Regardless of the garden you choose, proper preparation is the key to success.

Essential Tools

Before jumping into your Spring gardening routine, you’ll want to stock up on a few tools of the trade. While gardening can be a wonderful hobby, it can quickly turn into a painful experience without the right pair of gloves. Look for gloves that fit well, are water-resistant, and breathable. You’ll also want to pick up a hand trowel which is perfect for transplanting plants and flowers or taking out those pesky weeds. If you have large trees in your yard, you know how handy a rake can be for whisking away leaves and debris.

For moving around soil, compost, or anything heavy, a wheelbarrow is worth the investment. And let’s not forget your watering can—so many sizes, shapes, and styles to choose from, it will be hard to pick just one. According to Garden Design, there are 12 essential gardening tools you’ll want to keep in your shed year-round.

Gardening like a Native

April is our traditional planting season here in Knoxville, and we are strong advocates for going native. Using native plants in landscaping is not a new concept. Native plants tend to thrive in their natural environment. They work well with pollinators in the area, provide food or shelter to local wildlife, and bring biodiversity back to areas that need it. You may think Elderberries are only found at IKEA, but they are actually native to the Knoxville area. Not only do they have lovely white flowers, but their dark purple berries can also be made into jellies and wines. Plant this shrub in the shade and watch it thrive. Virginia Bluebells are not just for Virginians! This classic Midwest foliage features light pink bud clusters that open up into light blue trumpet-shaped flowers.

And if you’re butterfly fans like us, you can’t go wrong with Milkweed. While its name is less than desirable, these green leaves are the only leaves a Monarch caterpillar will eat. The brilliant orange flowers attract Monarch butterflies who deposit their eggs on the underside of the leaves. Pick and choose your favorite native plants at Stanley’s Greenhouse, an award-winning family-owned and operated greenhouse and garden center located right here in Knoxville.

Gardening Like a Chef

Herbs have been used for centuries around the world. Herbalists treasure the healing qualities of certain flowers, leaves, and roots, whereas cooks love the unique flavors that herbs can add to their favorite dishes. An “herb” is considered any plant that is considered useful—but it’s not all about function, some gardeners have grown herbs simply because they are beautiful. Most herbs thrive in typical garden soil with good drainage. They can become stressed in a windy or exposed location, so planting herbs near your home or next to other buildings or walls can increase your chances for success. Basil, cilantro, dill, parsley, and sage can all be sown with a seed-starting tray and are considered easy to grow.

These herb gardening tips from Better Homes & Gardens are sure to make beginning a breeze.

Gardening for the Future

Did you know the two biggest users of water in your home are toilets and landscaping? Now more than ever, being water-wise is not only smart for your wallet, it’s doing your part for the planet.

One of the easiest ways to lower your water usage is to collect rainwater. Rainwater is the best choice for your plants and can be collected in barrels or cisterns. Using your downspouts (aka rain gutters), a 1,000 square foot roof can yield 625 gallons of water from just one inch of rain. Installing a drip system and/or using a soaker hose can ensure that the water you do use is getting where you need it and not rolling down your sidewalk or driveway. Another great way to be water-wise is by making smart choices with your landscaping.

Using larger pavers or stepping stones can be strategically placed to reduce green space thoughtfully. In addition, using mulch on top of your soil can add interest to your landscape and cut back on unwanted weeds. Check out additional ways to be water-wise with these tips from The Spruce.

Gardening without a Green Thumb

Worried that your thumb isn’t quite green enough to pull off a Spring garden? Have no fear! Good Housekeeping has compiled a list of 30 gorgeous indoor plants that are almost impossible to kill. Having plants inside your home is not only beautiful to look at, but they also help purify the air you breathe. Some of our favorites include “Mother-in-law’s Tongue” which can go for a month without water, “Philodendrons” which prefer low light and need little water, “Ponytail Palms” which thrive in a sunny window, and “Aloe” which loves indirect light and a good soak every week or two.

Honoring Earth Day With Eco-Friendly Choices At Home

Written By: Holli McCray

Honoring Earth Day With Eco-Friendly Choices At Home

Earth Day was founded in 1970 as a day of education that is focused on environmental issues. Every year on April 22, when Earth Day is celebrated, people around the world mobilize to call for greater protection for our planet. Now a global celebration, it is sometimes extended into Earth Week, a full seven days of events focused on green living. This year, Earth Day will celebrate its 50^th anniversary with the theme of climate action. Climate change is a challenge that faces the future of humanity and the life-support systems that make our world habitable. That said, there’s so much you can do to help protect and restore our planet. Here are a few ways you can make eco-friendly choices in your own home…

Saving Water

One of the easiest changes you can make at home is saving water. Your momma probably told you a hundred times, but you know what—she was right! Turning off the water when you brush your teeth can save up to 200 gallons of water per month. The average American washes his or her hands nearly 9 times per day. If you follow guidelines to scrub your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds, you could save at least 6 gallons per day by turning off the tap while you scrub. Did you know a bath typically uses up to 30 gallons of water? However, a five-minute shower will use only 10-25 gallons depending on the efficiency of the showerhead. We love these shower timers from Dretec that remind you when it’s time to turn the water off.

Saving Energy

Did you know you can light your home using the same amount of light for less money? An average household dedicates about 5% of its energy budget to lighting. Switching to energy-efficient lighting is one of the easiest and fastest ways to cut your energy bills. By replacing your bulbs with models that have earned an Energy Star rating (for example – LED lighting), you shave hundreds off of your electricity bill each year! Find out which bulbs are right for you with this guide.

Another more comprehensive way to save energy at home is by installing solar panels. Solar panels provide completely clean electricity that can also produce extra energy that you can sell back to your local utility company. Solar panels are considered a long-term investment, generally taking around 20 years to break even depending on where you live. However, it is not just a monetary investment – it’s an opportunity to make a real difference. Since there are so many solar panel installation companies to choose from, we recommend perusing online reviews to see what other solar panel installers have to say. To see some of the latest innovations in solar energy, check out what Tesla is offering.

Going Green in the Home

Using harsh chemicals to clean your home can be very destructive to the environment. It can be easy to forget that all drains eventually lead to somewhere. Today, there are many eco-friendly cleaners available on the market. Did you know that most of the time, natural, eco-friendly simple cleaning products (and their ingredients like baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, water, or Borax) can handle most of your household cleaning needs AND save you money? T his article from Hip2Save shares some surprising news about top-selling cleaners and their eco-friendly counterparts.

Another way to make smart choices at home is to choose recycled products such as recycled paper towels and toilet paper. Whenever you notice that there is a recycled option available to buy, it’s worth purchasing. Buying recycled-content paper and products help “close the recycling loop.” By purchasing products with recycled content you prevent those materials from ending up in a landfill and do your part to maintain consumer demand for recyclables, ensuring the continuation of recycling programs. You can read more about Knoxville’s recycling programs here. So the next time you go shopping, remember to bring your bags with you and use your consumer power to make greener choices.

Going Green in the Garden

Composting may seem like a dirty word, but it’s easier than you might think. Composting not only reduces trash in landfills but also improves your backyard at home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), “compost is organic material that can be added to soil to help plants grow.” That means bigger produce, prettier flowers, and a healthier garden can come at no extra cost to you once you start saving your family’s scraps and turning them into “plant food.” This guide from Good Housekeeping walks you through the composting process.

Plant a Tree

Trees give off oxygen that we need to breathe. They reduce the amount of stormwater runoff, which reduces erosion and pollution in our waterways and may reduce the effects of flooding. Many species of wildlife depend on trees for their habitat. They also provide food, protection, and homes for many birds and mammals. The best time of year to plant trees in your yard is Fall and early Spring. If you are planting in the late spring (after Earth Day) or summer, we recommend planting in a pot where you can tend it, and plant it in the ground the following fall. Here’s a step-by-step guide for planting trees.

Since 2007, the Tennessee Tree Project has helped reforest our great state by facilitating the planting of 637,100 native trees in Tennessee. Each year they host a community tree planting event called Tennessee Tree Day.

Going Beyond Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

It’s going to take all of us working together to make a real difference for our planet. But making little changes every day can add up and have a positive impact. Take the next step to get involved by finding an Earth Day event near you and participating in Earth Hour.

4 Budget-Friendly Home Improvement Ideas

Written By: Holli McCray | 5 Minute Read

Make these simple and affordable home improvements now to help boost the value and appeal of your home!

Even if you don’t plan to sell your home anytime soon, The Holli McCray Home Marketing Group always recommends staying current with home updates and improvements. These 4 budget-friendly “DIY” home improvement ideas will not only boost the appearance and appeal of your home, but they can also help your home sell faster when it comes time to put it on the market. Here are a few tips to get you started…

1. Add A Backsplash

It’s incredible how much a new backsplash can change the look and feel of a kitchen. Many DIY backsplashes even have adhesive backings to make it easier than ever to add this upgrade to your kitchen. The Spruce has some helpful hacks to get you started!

And backsplashes aren’t just for kitchens! Consider adding a backsplash in the bathrooms to dress them up a bit. 4 inches is the standard height of a bathroom sink backsplash, but some may be much taller. Adding a backsplash behind the bathroom sink is a simple way to add color, texture and more visual interest into a room that may otherwise be overlooked! The Home Depot is here with some tips to make this bathroom backsplash project as easy as possible.

2. Re-Caulk & Clean Grout In The Wet Areas

DO NOT overlook the potentially grimy caulk and grout around your home even if it seems like a daunting task to refresh it. It’s not that difficult! You might be accustomed to what it looks like, but it may be a turnoff to those who visit your home. Start by cleaning the grout and then add straight, clean lines of caulk around the tub and sink. This task does require some elbow grease, but it’s simple, affordable, and you’ll be amazed at what a big difference this can make to the overall look and feel of your home for just a few dollars. The Coupon Project tells you how to re-grout a shower for under $50.

3. Add Extra Outdoor Seating

Create an outdoor seating area by adding a table and chairs to your deck, patio, front porch, or fire pit area. This creates an illusion of more space and brings the eye to an area where future potential buyers can picture themselves entertaining family and friends. Peruse Knoxville Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp, or a local consignment/thrift store before buying new furniture. You’d be surprised at how many budget-friendly furniture options are out there and they can make SUCH a big difference in your outdoor space.

4. Paint Trim & Baseboards

We came across this helpful article by DIY Decor Mom on painting the trim and baseboards around the home. This small project can make a HUGE difference in the look of your home, giving it the appearance of a lighter and brighter space. If you aren’t sure which color to choose, we generally recommend using a bright white with most homes.

The best part about this project? All it takes is some time, a few rolls of painter’s tape and a gallon or two of semi-gloss paint!

If you’ve been working hard to update your Knoxville area home and are curious if now may be the right time sell hit, don’t hesitate to reach out to us!

7 Ways To Increase Your Home’s Value On A Budget

7 Home Improvement Ideas Under $1,000

Implementing one or more of these affordable upgrades can help increase your home’s value…

1. Install programmable thermostats

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, heating your home accounts for more than 40% of its total energy usage. Adding programmable thermostats help to maintain a consistent temperature in your home to avoid costly highs and lows. Remember to drop the temperature inside your home by a few degrees while sleeping or when you’re out of town. This strategy can lead to huge monthly savings. The long-term savings in utility costs will be also appealing to potential buyers when your house is on the market.

2. Updated fixtures

It’s amazing how much a new fixture can breathe new life into any space. Both your kitchen and bathrooms will benefit from items such as new drawer and cabinet handles. When new cabinets for the kitchen aren’t an option for your budget, new hardware and possibly fresh cabinet paint are simple (and affordable) ways to update the overall look of the room. Other items such as faucets, light fixtures, ceiling fans, and doorknobs also help create a fresh new look for a home. Just make sure the new fixtures you install match and are the same style throughout…

3. New tile floors

Bathroom a bit “blah?” Install a brand new tile floor to breathe life into the space for an instant upgrade. Tile is easy to clean, low maintenance and also resists germs as well as allergens. Tile is also ideal for high-traffic areas both in the bathroom and throughout the home. There are thousands of tile options out there that can fit almost any budget. If you’ve never installed tile before, we recommend a professional tile installation contractor, so please let us know if we can refer one to you.

4. Replace old toilets

The overall visual appeal of your bathroom can be enhanced by simply replacing an old, cracked, or outdated toilet. It only costs a few hundred dollars to purchase a new one, and the impact will be worth every penny. Also, many newer toilets use less water than older ones, which will help to reduce your water bill.

5. Updated window treatments

New window coverings are an easy way to enhance a room. We love the look of plantation shutters and upgraded blinds! We recommend the faux wood blinds, not only because they are cheaper than traditional wood blinds, but because they tend to last a lot longer. Standard width windows are easy to shop for, so check any large home improvement store for basic blinds (most allow you to customize the length right in the store). For custom or irregular windows, odds are you’re looking at a special order situation. If your budget allows, definitely consider plantation shutters for that upscale vibe — they can be a major selling point when it comes time to sell…

6. Replace the front door

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: Curb appeal is everything, and the front door is one of the first things a potential buyer will see! It’s also the outdoor focal point of your entryway. Give your home a facelift and replace (or re-paint) the front door. Keep in mind practicality and safety when choosing a door, and don’t skimp on the hardware.

7. Create a walkway

There are many options when it comes to adding a new walkway path leading to the front door of your home, and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Brick pavers add a classic look to the exterior of your home, but depending on your budget you may also consider stone, concrete, or even rocks. Just make sure the walkway falls within the overall style of your home. You only have one chance to make a first impression! It can be easily elevated when walking up a pretty new pathway to the front door.

Have you recently made budget-friendly improvements to your home? We’d love to hear about them in the comments below! When you’re ready to sell your home in the Greater Knoxville area, reach out to our team of experts and let us know. We’ll be glad to come out and provide some ideas to help get your house ready to put on the market…

Home Improvements That Can Help Sell Your Home

Are you ready to take the next step and sell your home?

There are many things to consider when putting your home on the market, one of them being home improvements and upgrades. Sellers often ask us what home improvements they should do to help get top-dollar for their home. From small updates to major projects, knowing where to allocate your time and money to attract the right buyers is crucial, so that you can sell your home for the most money in the shortest amount of time.

It’s the Little Things

Before buyers even come to see your home, they get their first impressions from the listing photos. Making small changes to the home’s interior can help bring about a more clean and cohesive look. Consider having your home professionally cleaned before the photos are taken. Get rid of faded curtains and/or broken blinds for an instant refresher that won’t break the bank. Replace dated fixtures and appliances to provide a more updated look to the house. Potential buyers can be easily turned off by small details. Some buyers may even assume that since the little things around the home weren’t taken care of, then it’s likely there are issues with some of the bigger items such as the roof, HVAC system, and plumbing.

Paint, Paint, Paint

Painting is a relatively inexpensive way to improve the look of your home. Freshly-painted walls with neutral colors will definitely help to enhance the overall appearance of the house. Painting is generally a MUST if there are bright or bold colors that may not be attractive to most buyers. Keeping a neutral color palette is essential so that potential buyers can picture themselves and their own furnishings in the home. These colors also tend to make rooms look more spacious. If the home’s exterior is faded, consider a pressure washing or a fresh coat of paint. Be sure to stick to neutral color combinations outside as well to maximize curb appeal.

Major Projects: Worth it or Not?

While there’s no tried-and-true formula to guarantee that any home improvement will yield a higher selling price, there are definitely some that will help sell a house more than others. For instance, if the roof is leaking this could potentially lead to more issues during the home inspection, so take care of it before that “for sale” sign hits the front yard. On the flip side, adding a new media room, steam shower, or a pool may not be as prudent when considering your return on investment. Certain upgrades such as a new HVAC unit conditioning can add a lot of value and appeal. In Knoxville, temperatures can get up into the ‘90s, so many home buyers would prefer having an HVAC system is in good working order. Other upgrades that typically yield a positive return for sellers are minor updates to the kitchen (example: adding new countertops), adding new bathroom fixtures and installing new flooring. As a general rule of thumb, away from major upgrades that are deemed more of an “option” than a “must” when selling your home.

According to Remodeling Magazine, you’re less likely to recoup your investment in a full kitchen remodel than you are on basic home maintenance such as new siding. That said, homes with updated kitchens typically sell faster and for more money than comparable homes that do not have updated kitchens. If you do opt to remodel, whether you plan to sell your home or not, make sure the style and finishes you select match the rest of the home. Again, keeping the overall look somewhat neutral can help command a higher price at the time of the sale.

HGTV points out that, “What you’ll get back on your investment depends on the value of your house, the value of houses in your immediate neighborhood, the housing market where you live, how soon you sell after making improvements, and the quality of the project itself. Installing a $10,000 stove in a $200,000 house, for example, ‘just doesn’t compute.’” Before making the decision to any major home improvement, carefully consider whether it’s a necessity. Is it something that will actually increase the value and overall desirability of your home? Don’t go overboard!!

Go Green!

Many of today’s home listings highlight green and eco-friendly features because sustainability is becoming more important to home buyers. Which of these types of improvements will help sell your house? One of the most effective improvements to make is adding energy-efficient windows, which could help recoup up to 70% of the cost when selling a house. Other popular green features that are desirable to buyers include programmable smart thermostats, energy-efficient water heaters, high-efficiency appliances and landscaping with native plants that are easy to maintain, which also help improve curb appeal.

In today’s market, especially in the Knoxville area, buyers will pay a much higher price, even over the list price in some cases, to purchase a home that is updated and considered move-in ready. We strongly recommend discussing any potential improvements or home staging ideas with your real estate agent before making any final decisions. The Holli McCray Home Marketing Group listing team is always available to answer any questions you may have about what improvements to make to help sell your house. Contact us today!