As the real estate and finance markets crumble further by the day, all home values have plummeted right along. Even homes in perfect condition are now worth a staggering 70% less than only a few years ago. To keep your value, maybe some home improvement projects are in order.
If you have thought about either of the above scenarios, you do have some choices when it comes to trying to increase your home's value. It won't matter if you hire a professional or do it yourself. Of course, only tackle projects you are sure you will be able to handle. An improperly completely project can cause more problems than you started with.
There are a few very important areas in your home that not only add more value than other areas, they demand constant attention to avoid what is called "functional obsolescence". Sometimes not upgrading a bathroom or kitchen can devalue your home over $25,000 in addition to the hit the entire real estate market has seen over the past two years.
Unless you just did a major rehab in these areas, there are always upgrades and improvements that can be made. Just adding stainless steel appliances can add value, and no matter how much you spend you are almost guaranteed to get every penny back. High faucets, deep granite sinks and recessed lighting can add even more value.
You might think your kitchen can"t get any better, but sometimes just changing out appliances can add value, or at least prevent a further drop in value. Stainless appliances will add value to your home and almost guarantee that you will get your money back.
New sinks and faucets can completely change the mood and appeal of a kitchen or bath. If you aren't sure what's new or fashionable, check out your local home improvement center. There are so many new styles for every need. Cooks love the high faucets that enable filling pots right in the sink. Upgrade from a stainless steel sink to granite sink, and you are definitely on the right path!
For bathrooms, the sky is the limit. New standalone vanities are the rage and there is a color, style and size for every budget. They are easy to install and usually come with any special tools that are needed. Choose a new sink and faucet to complete the look and you might add $5,000 to your home's value for an investment of under $1,200.
Invest in some paint, shrubbery, flowers, or even a new fence - whatever it takes to make your house stand out from the rest. Sometimes it's easier to just re-sod your entire yard instead of planting grass seed and watching it grow. Trim your bushes, remove old or dead shrubs, fix bricks or stones in a tattered walkway or patio.
Refinish the deck, or even add one! A new deck big enough to entertain on can add over $10,000 in value to any home.
If you have thought about either of the above scenarios, you do have some choices when it comes to trying to increase your home's value. It won't matter if you hire a professional or do it yourself. Of course, only tackle projects you are sure you will be able to handle. An improperly completely project can cause more problems than you started with.
There are a few very important areas in your home that not only add more value than other areas, they demand constant attention to avoid what is called "functional obsolescence". Sometimes not upgrading a bathroom or kitchen can devalue your home over $25,000 in addition to the hit the entire real estate market has seen over the past two years.
Unless you just did a major rehab in these areas, there are always upgrades and improvements that can be made. Just adding stainless steel appliances can add value, and no matter how much you spend you are almost guaranteed to get every penny back. High faucets, deep granite sinks and recessed lighting can add even more value.
You might think your kitchen can"t get any better, but sometimes just changing out appliances can add value, or at least prevent a further drop in value. Stainless appliances will add value to your home and almost guarantee that you will get your money back.
New sinks and faucets can completely change the mood and appeal of a kitchen or bath. If you aren't sure what's new or fashionable, check out your local home improvement center. There are so many new styles for every need. Cooks love the high faucets that enable filling pots right in the sink. Upgrade from a stainless steel sink to granite sink, and you are definitely on the right path!
For bathrooms, the sky is the limit. New standalone vanities are the rage and there is a color, style and size for every budget. They are easy to install and usually come with any special tools that are needed. Choose a new sink and faucet to complete the look and you might add $5,000 to your home's value for an investment of under $1,200.
Invest in some paint, shrubbery, flowers, or even a new fence - whatever it takes to make your house stand out from the rest. Sometimes it's easier to just re-sod your entire yard instead of planting grass seed and watching it grow. Trim your bushes, remove old or dead shrubs, fix bricks or stones in a tattered walkway or patio.
Refinish the deck, or even add one! A new deck big enough to entertain on can add over $10,000 in value to any home.
