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.