Home upgrades can be great ways to give your home a much-needed makeover, gain extra space, make it more comfortable, and more energy-efficient. Not only can you make your home more aesthetically appealing, but you can take comfort in knowing that all your hard work will save you money and pay off for you in the long run. Here are 6 home upgrading tips that have the potential to do just that!
1. Lighting
To give your home a cleaner, updated look, replace old and inefficient light fixtures with bright chandeliers or other more contemporary light fixtures. And while you’re at it, be sure to use CFL or LED light bulbs. Though pricer than incandescents, when you consider how long they last and how energy-efficient they are, you’ll be glad you did. Not only will you save energy and money in the long run, but you’ll keep your house cooler during the hot summer months ahead.
2. Flooring
New flooring can give your home a tremendous lift! As we saw with my post, 7 Simple Steps for Modernizing Your Kitchen, hardwood flooring is still the most popular choice with buyers, but laminate is also a good option, particularly if you’re on a budget. However, hardwood flooring is still the best option to keep your home’s value up since many buyers look for this natural, solid, and durable flooring in homes today.
3. Doors & Windows
Though you might have forgotten as of late, Albuquerque has had its share of cold nights this winter. So make sure your doors and windows are airtight. With windows and doors closed, you can hold a lit stick of incense near window and door frames where drafts might sneak in and watch for smoke movement. Note what areas need caulk, sealant, and weather-stripping. It’s never a bad idea to upgrade to A-rated energy efficient windows, either. Before you start saving on your energy bills, consider windows with a good soundproof rating, too.
4. Porch/Patio
Curb appeal is everything, so if you have a front porch (or even a back patio) that’s looking worn and drabby, it may be worth refreshing it by giving it a fresh coat of paint. I discuss how to efficiently paint your home without breaking your bank in my post, 7 Tips For Saving on Home Painting.
5. En Suite
Tired of family members fighting over the bathroom every morning? An en suite could be the answer. Though some homeowners add an en suite by converting a small bedroom, in order to maximize the resale value, it’s best to try to find the space without losing a bedroom. You may be able to use a small part of your landing or or a larger closet or just a small part of a bedroom. In the end, en suites are a plus for many homebuyers.
6. Conservatory
Saving perhaps the biggest investment for last, building a conservatory can not only be well worth the additional space, but the increased home value as well. Potentially increasing the value of your home by up to five percent, conservatories provide a bright and airy space to relax in. The benefits are only limited by your imagination! Use this extra room for a dining room or even a playroom. They also offer a way to enjoy your garden and feel closer to nature all year round, even in the winter!
Whether you’re going to enjoy these upgrades as a homeowner or looking to increase the value of your property to sell, I find nothing is more satisfying and rewarding than making home improvements!
If you have any home upgrade ideas of your own, please share them in the comments below. And if you’re thinking about buying or selling your next home in metro Albuquerque, contact me today!
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