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Effective Home Renovation Ideas That Give You a Higher ROI

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Home renovations are a great way to add more value to your home. Learn which renovation ideas are likely to give you the best ROI long-term.

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A home renovation can always provide a number of advantages down the road. If you plan on selling the house in the future, the upgrades you do now could end up increasing the value of the home, and in turn, increase the amount of profit you can expect to receive after the sale.

That said, home improvement trends vary greatly, and not all of them will yield positive results in the long term. It is best to approach home design and renovation with a strategy in mind that narrows down the options to the most effective and affordable options. Below is a list of common modifications that are likely to bring you the highest ROI.

Kitchen Makeovers

Buyers often focus on the kitchen when touring properties, and they’re typically looking for ones that look great and are practical.

However, undertaking an entire kitchen remodel is costly. There are other ways to make an impact without spending so much and actually receiving a good ROI. Refacing kitchen cabinetry, for example, is much cheaper than replacing it entirely while still giving the kitchen a fresh look. The same is true for old countertops that can be replaced with more stylish and durable ones like granite or quartz.

Bathroom Upgrades

Remodeling other areas of the house, such as the bathroom, is also easy and can raise the value of your home. In the same manner, ROI is high in relation to the total in

Floors are an important detail in a home. If poorly laid out, it can cause problems in daily living. Modern flooring choices can be a great way to increase a home’s value. It looks great and it’s easier to maintain. Hardwood floors, for example, are preferred by many homeowners. But if your budget is tight, going with high-quality laminate also works.

A tile or stone selection is another good option. It minimizes the possibility of water damage and helps to improve aesthetics when remodeling a kitchen or bathroom.

Upgrading Your Home to Be More Energy Efficient

Eco-friendly features are becoming increasingly popular for first-time home buyers, especially ones that want to lower costs while helping to save the environment. Using energy-saving features is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint while also helping to save money on monthly maintenance bills, thus, increasing the home’s market value.

One way you can start making positive changes is to look for the Energy Star Sticker when shopping for new appliances for your home. You’ll be able to find a number of appliances and fixtures you can use in all areas of the home, including the bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room. Replacing old windows with new energy-efficient ones is another way to lower the cost of heating and cooling the house.

If the insulation material in your walls and attic is getting a bit older, it would be a good idea to replace it. This will prevent air from escaping through gaps and cracks, preventing energy bills from becoming too high. It’s a relatively low-cost improvement that can make a huge difference long term.

Increasing Available Storage

When it comes to prospective home buyers, additional storage always checks off boxes. Additional storage can be important for anything from kitchen supplies to having a safe place for storing collectibles or hobbyist items.

An oversized closet with removable shelves and organizers is a major bonus to have if space permits. In the kitchen and bathrooms, sliding shelves, pullout hidden storage, and drawer dividers can also help to utilize all available space. Using LED strip lights in storage areas can also help homeowners better utilize their space in darker spaces or when using more out-of-reach storage options.

Get More Value From Your Home Renovationsvestment put in. Minor changes to the bathroom can make a big difference. A good starting point is to replace sinks and other fixtures.

Keep in mind that new water taps and shower heads not only improve the look of a bathroom, but are also more water efficient. This is a positive for both the environment and potential buyers. Replacing worn out or cracked tiles is also sensible because, tiles, more often than not, are the first element of a room to age. For certain bathrooms, adding larger windows and skylights can also transform the space.

Maintaining an Open Concept

Although open concept living isn’t for everyone, it has grown in popularity over the years. Now, it’s very common for people looking for a new home to want rooms that flow more seamlessly into one another. This gives an impression of spaciousness. One way to achieve this look is by removing certain non-load-bearing walls to merge areas into one inviting space.

This type of layout is a great feature for those who enjoy entertaining because it allows you to combine the kitchen, living room, and dining room into one central space, making all areas much more sociable.

Making More Use of Natural Lighting

If you work from home, natural light can be a great way to keep you more productive. It changes the entire environment into a more cheerful and peaceful place. If there aren’t many windows you can use, using smart LED lighting with temperature control is a budget-friendly option.

If the budget allows, skylights are great for bringing in a lot of natural light into a room and leaving ample wall space.

Changing Your Flooring

When looking to improve your home, a fresh paint coat isn’t the only thing you should think about. Smart design and thoughtful upgrade decisions are what get you the most profitable results if and when you decide to sell the home. By following the best practices discussed, you’ll be sure to get the right ROI when you’re ready to start your next renovation project. 

Author Information

Rebecca Denis

Rebecca Denis, Head of Design at Revive Real Estate, is an accomplished and highly creative interior designer with over ten years of experience in the industry. With a passion for transforming spaces and a keen eye for detail, she has successfully completed numerous projects ranging from commercial spaces to custom show homes.

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How a New Roof Can Increase Your Home’s Value

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The improvements you make to your home, whether to enjoy them yourself or because you’re about to put your house on the market, are always a worthwhile investment. A new roof will raise the value of your property because every aspect of the house, including the condition of the roof, affects pricing. Although the value of your home will not necessarily go up by the exact amount you paid for your new roof, there’ll still be an improvement.

Knowing exactly how a roof boosts your home’s value may influence the decisions you make regarding your upcoming roof replacement. So, be informed when making critical roof replacement decisions.

How a New Roof Raises the Value of Your Home

1. It enhances the home’s curb appeal

Curb appeal refers to how attractive your home and its surroundings appear to someone passing by. The more impressive, the more buyers are willing to pay. A new roof, done by an expert roofer, can improve the overall appearance of your home. New roofing materials come in a variety of colors and finishes, and can be an important design feature. Quite simply, a buyer is not going to be impressed by an old roof. Roofs with damaged, broken, or missing shingles, broken gutters, rotting fascia boards, mold and mildew, and debris aren’t just unappealing, they’re a liability. Therefore, ensure that your roof is in the best condition possible.

2. It raises the home appraisal value

A house on the market must be appraised. The appraiser assesses the value of your house by examining its features, functionalities, and overall condition. The roof, in particular, is thoroughly assessed, and if in good condition, your home gets a higher appraisal value. In addition to the appraisal, a new roof is an excellent selling point. It’s easier to convince a buyer to agree to a higher price when the roof has a long expected lifespan, and some of the most common problems with a roof can be avoided. Therefore, if you’re looking to place your home on the market soon, schedule a roof replacement.

3. It offers durability and safety

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Buying a home with a new roof is a great relief for buyers. They appreciate that after purchasing the home, they won’t have to dig back into their pockets to pay for roof repairs or replacements. Buyers with limited finances often use savings to hire a realtor and make the down payment. The cost of moving and other items needed to settle into the new home can quickly drain remaining funds. Any additional costs can be frustrating.

A new roof is less likely to have issues, and if they come up, there’s usually an extended warranty to cover the costs of repairs. In contrast, old roof warranties have likely expired, and any roof restoration services must be paid for out of pocket. To a buyer, a new roof is a safer option. Therefore, when selling your house, use your new roof as a bargaining chip. Buyers will likely buy a home that does not come with additional ‘baggage.’

4. Your home is likely to sell faster

You’ve seen houses stay on the market for a long time. Many of them are usually overpriced, poorly presented, or lack the ‘wow’ factor. To add some zest to your offer, install a new roof and state it clearly on the ad, and add photos to prove it. Your home will likely sell quickly and fetch more money than homes with older roofs.

5. It saves on energy

Everyone is becoming increasingly aware of the need to conserve resources. With the rising cost of living, people are seeking ways to cut their spending, and one way to do it is by reducing energy consumption with an energy-efficient roof. “Cool roofs” lower energy costs by reflecting the heat off the roof and keeping the interior of the house cool. This reduces the need for running the A/C as much. Examples of energy-efficient roofing materials are synthetic shingles, metal, and tile. Green roofs and roof gardens on flat roofs are also efficient at warding off excess heat. If you decide on any of these options, you’ll increase the value of your home and have more luck attracting buyers, particularly those who are eco-conscious.

A New Roof Is a Home Value Booster

Installing a new roof on your home will increase its value and enable it to fetch a higher price in the market. Buyers are inclined to opt for homes with curb appeal, and durable, energy-efficient roofs that are not prone to roofing issues. So, don’t be apprehensive about spending money on a new roof — it will pay off in the end.

Effective Home Renovation Ideas That Give You a Higher ROI

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A home renovation can always provide a number of advantages down the road. If you plan on selling the house in the future, the upgrades you do now could end up increasing the value of the home, and in turn, increase the amount of profit you can expect to receive after the sale.

That said, home improvement trends vary greatly, and not all of them will yield positive results in the long term. It is best to approach home design and renovation with a strategy in mind that narrows down the options to the most effective and affordable options. Below is a list of common modifications that are likely to bring you the highest ROI.

Kitchen Makeovers

Buyers often focus on the kitchen when touring properties, and they’re typically looking for ones that look great and are practical.

However, undertaking an entire kitchen remodel is costly. There are other ways to make an impact without spending so much and actually receiving a good ROI. Refacing kitchen cabinetry, for example, is much cheaper than replacing it entirely while still giving the kitchen a fresh look. The same is true for old countertops that can be replaced with more stylish and durable ones like granite or quartz.

Bathroom Upgrades

Remodeling other areas of the house, such as the bathroom, is also easy and can raise the value of your home. In the same manner, ROI is high in relation to the total investment put in. Minor changes to the bathroom can make a big difference. A good starting point is to replace sinks and other fixtures.

Keep in mind that new water taps and shower heads not only improve the look of a bathroom, but are also more water efficient. This is a positive for both the environment and potential buyers. Replacing worn out or cracked tiles is also sensible because, tiles, more often than not, are the first element of a room to age. For certain bathrooms, adding larger windows and skylights can also transform the space.

Maintaining an Open Concept

Although open concept living isn’t for everyone, it has grown in popularity over the years. Now, it’s very common for people looking for a new home to want rooms that flow more seamlessly into one another. This gives an impression of spaciousness. One way to achieve this look is by removing certain non-load-bearing walls to merge areas into one inviting space.

This type of layout is a great feature for those who enjoy entertaining because it allows you to combine the kitchen, living room, and dining room into one central space, making all areas much more sociable.

Making More Use of Natural Lighting

If you work from home, natural light can be a great way to keep you more productive. It changes the entire environment into a more cheerful and peaceful place. If there aren’t many windows you can use, using smart LED lighting with temperature control is a budget-friendly option.

If the budget allows, skylights are great for bringing in a lot of natural light into a room and leaving ample wall space.

Changing Your Flooring

Floors are an important detail in a home. If poorly laid out, it can cause problems in daily living. Modern flooring choices can be a great way to increase a home’s value. It looks great and it’s easier to maintain. Hardwood floors, for example, are preferred by many homeowners. But if your budget is tight, going with high-quality laminate also works.

A tile or stone selection is another good option. It minimizes the possibility of water damage and helps to improve aesthetics when remodeling a kitchen or bathroom.

Upgrading Your Home to Be More Energy Efficient

Eco-friendly features are becoming increasingly popular for first-time home buyers, especially ones that want to lower costs while helping to save the environment. Using energy-saving features is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint while also helping to save money on monthly maintenance bills, thus, increasing the home’s market value.

One way you can start making positive changes is to look for the Energy Star Sticker when shopping for new appliances for your home. You’ll be able to find a number of appliances and fixtures you can use in all areas of the home, including the bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room. Replacing old windows with new energy-efficient ones is another way to lower the cost of heating and cooling the house.

If the insulation material in your walls and attic is getting a bit older, it would be a good idea to replace it. This will prevent air from escaping through gaps and cracks, preventing energy bills from becoming too high. It’s a relatively low-cost improvement that can make a huge difference long term.

Increasing Available Storage

When it comes to prospective home buyers, additional storage always checks off boxes. Additional storage can be important for anything from kitchen supplies to having a safe place for storing collectibles or hobbyist items.

An oversized closet with removable shelves and organizers is a major bonus to have if space permits. In the kitchen and bathrooms, sliding shelves, pullout hidden storage, and drawer dividers can also help to utilize all available space. Using LED strip lights in storage areas can also help homeowners better utilize their space in darker spaces or when using more out-of-reach storage options.

Get More Value From Your Home Renovations

When looking to improve your home, a fresh paint coat isn’t the only thing you should think about. Smart design and thoughtful upgrade decisions are what get you the most profitable results if and when you decide to sell the home. By following the best practices discussed, you’ll be sure to get the right ROI when you’re ready to start your next renovation project. 

Author Bio:

Rebecca Denis, Head of Design at Revive Real Estate, is an accomplished and highly creative interior designer with over ten years of experience in the industry. With a passion for transforming spaces and a keen eye for detail, she has successfully completed numerous projects ranging from commercial spaces to custom show homes.

When Remodeling a House, What Comes First?

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Everyone dreams about how they might go about improving their home. Whether it’s practical considerations like rethinking the floor plan of a kitchen or big ideas like a whole-home remodel, we all have things we’d like to do to make our most important asset more valuable and more pleasant to live in.

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Take Time to Dream

When you’re ready to take action, take some time to sit down as a family and dream a little. Make a list of “needs” and “wants.” What really has to be done to ensure the safe, efficient, and comfortable functioning of your home? What would you love to see happen if time and money permit? Is it a bathroom remodel you want, or are you considering multiple rooms? Don’t be too “married” to any one idea, because budgetary constraints will ultimately determine what’s realistic.

Figure Out Your Budget

Don’t let a renovation project fall apart because you run out of money or take on debt you can’t afford. Many people don’t have a clear idea of how much debt they can afford to take on. Closely examine your household budget. Even if you have disposable income, might some of that have to go toward a loan payment? Most people will find it necessary to borrow money for an extensive home remodel, but you could make that money back in the value the project adds to your home. How much can you afford to spend on this project without putting yourself in an uncomfortable financial position? Many banks offer free loan payment calculators, so you can input a few pieces of information and it will tell you how much you can afford to borrow.

Obtain Funds

Assuming you will need to borrow, don’t just assume your usual bank will give you the best loan, and don’t borrow from just anyone who offers you a loan – take the time to ensure that you’re borrowing the right amount of money, at the best possible rate, from a reputable lender. Many remodeling contractors offer financing, but take a day or two to comparison shop because you may be able to get a better loan than the contractors offer.

Vet Contractors

Start with your hometown social media group. Ask your neighbors who did their remodel. Often you’ll find that there are a few remodelers who do a lot of work in your area and who have a good reputation. Don’t just go with the first one you meet: compare their estimates and choose the remodeler whose reputation you can easily verify, who offers you the best price, and is willing to stand by their work with a long warranty.

Make a Plan

Undergo a pre-home renovation walkthrough with the contractor. Show them your wants and needs list. When they’re looking at your home and considering your ideas, they’ll be able to develop a plan that accomplishes as many of your goals as possible, within your budget. They should give you a formal written proposal of what they plan to do, how long it will take, and how much it will cost.

Monitor Progress

Don’t just vacate the premises and leave everything in the contractor’s hands. Check in periodically to ensure that everything is on schedule and within budget. If a project is going to take longer or cost more than originally planned, ensure that the contractor gives you a detailed explanation about the changes and provides you with an updated plan in writing.

Handle What’s Necessary First

Any good contractor will tell you that if you’re going to be opening walls, now is the time to take care of any plumbing, electrical, and heating or air conditioning concerns. Be sure that the contractor resolves the items highest on your “needs” list first. From there, they should handle the costliest, most complicated, and messiest tasks in order. If the written plan has to change, get a good explanation and an updated document.

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Make It Beautiful

Make sure that this part of the process is figured into the budget. Once all necessary items are complete, you’ll be free to concentrate on cosmetic improvements. This is your opportunity, while you have a blank slate, to create a home that reflects your personality. Select colors, textures, and details that will make your family comfortable and happy for years to come.

How Much Does Remodeling a House Cost?

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Smart planning gets you the most value for your remodeling dollars

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Your home is your greatest investment, and with proper care and management, it can be your greatest asset. The reasons for remodeling your home are numerous, but the fact that remodeling can add 40 to 60 percent to the resale value of your home can be extremely important. Not only will you get significantly more if you do sell down the road, but if you do this right, your credit could skyrocket and you could find yourself much freer to meet future goals with your increased buying power.

Perhaps your needs are changing, such as a new baby or elderly parents moving in. Maybe the layout of your kitchen has never been conducive to the way you cook. Maybe as you’re aging, you decide you’d like a shower instead of a bathtub, and while you’re at it, you’d like to reconfigure your bathroom sinks and counter space. Or is it that, after your last barbecue, you realized your deck and patio aren’t as safe as they should be?

You might want to remodel your home for any number of practical reasons, but it’s important to be practical, too, about planning not just for your dreams, but how you’ll afford those dreams. The last thing you want is to have to stop in the middle of a major project because you run out of money.

Begin by Determining Your Budget Any project you plan is only as good as your ability to pay for it. If you have savings earmarked for home remodeling, this is the best way because you won’t owe anybody anything. You could borrow against the existing equity in your home, take out a personal loan, or even use credit cards to earn rewards – each of these payment methods comes with its own costs and benefits and it makes sense to explore all your options before doing anything.
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Once you know how much you have to spend, you can then begin considering how best to spend it. When you plan your remodel, leave a cushion for unexpected surprises that come up once demolition has begun, such as rot, pest infestations, and many more unseen drains on your budget. Consider, too, incidental expenses associated with your remodel, such as the cost of packing up, moving, and storing possessions, or hotel costs if you have to vacate the house for a while.

With a concrete budget in hand, you can now sit down and put your imagination to work: what is it you want to do? Start by brainstorming, letting your imagination run wild – what would you do if money were no object? From this list of dreams, begin prioritizing what changes you really need, such as that safe shower, versus what changes would be nice, but are not necessary, such as decorative touches like skylights. Also, don’t forget to budget for things like furniture and decor, which you may want to change once your beautiful project is complete.

Use one of the many remodeling cost calculators available online (your bank may offer such a feature with your account) to give you a rough idea of the average costs nationwide for each project. For example, the average cost of a bathroom remodel can be anywhere from $75 to $275 per square foot, or $10,800 – but that shower you want could cost $10,000 by itself. A kitchen remodel could cost as much as $30,000, or $75 to $250 per square foot.

Vet Your Contractors

Extensive remodeling, which may require the modification of electrical and plumbing or the removal or relocation of walls, is best done with the assistance of vetted contractors. Seek recommendations from family, friends, and neighbors. Read reviews. Check the Better Business Bureau for any complaints against the contractors you’re considering. When they do a walkthrough with you to discuss your needs and wants, they’ll be able to help you figure out what changes you can really afford on your budget, and what may be out of reach.

The research you did with the remodeling cost calculator will be helpful background information for this meeting. Get at least three quotes so you can choose not only the best price but also the contractor who offers you the best protection for your job and with whom you feel most comfortable. Ultimately, the homework you do can make a difference in whether your budget covers the cost of your project.