Flowing rivers, gentle hills, countless lakes, and sprawling urban developments dot the landscape known as Kosciusko County. The county has charming lakeside towns, luxurious waterfront estates, and acres of lush farmland. Although the homes throughout the county are beautiful, they do not always fit the homeowners' lifestyle. Often people want to make changes to their homes, but they also want it to be worth the investment. Options for the best return on investment home improvements are shown below.
100% or more
Not every change has to be big to make a significant impact. According to the National Association of Realtors, here are the renovations that get 100% or more return on investment (ROI).
Hardwood
From having allergies to having pets, many people find hardwood flooring works better for their lifestyle than carpets. Homeowners could see a 118% ROI when installing new hardwood floors and a 147% ROI for refinishing existing hardwood floors.
Insulation
Replacing the insulation in a home may not seem glamorous or even noticeable to buyers, but it can be felt. A well-insulated home distributes temperatures evenly, so there will not be cold spots in the winter months or spaces that are overly hot in the summer. In addition, it can be registered through the financial savings experienced throughout the year.
Roofing
Replacing a worn-out roof prevents water damage and adds longevity to a home. There are so many different types of roofing materials nowadays that a new roof can enhance the house's curb appeal as well.
Garage door
A new garage door can improve the entire look of the home. It prevents the elements from getting inside and stops rodents and other wildlife from gaining access.
Kitchen
As they say, kitchens and baths sell homes. However, homeowners are unlikely to recoup dollar for dollar the amount they spend on major renovations in these areas.
It is good to keep resale in mind when doing a complete remodel because what is fashionable today will seem dated years from now. Determining what a value add is and what is not should influence design choices and keep budgets in line.
If homeowners are prepping to sell, a slight refresh may be a better use of funds. Here are a few suggestions.
It is good to keep resale in mind when doing a complete remodel because what is fashionable today will seem dated years from now. Determining what a value add is and what is not should influence design choices and keep budgets in line.
If homeowners are prepping to sell, a slight refresh may be a better use of funds. Here are a few suggestions.
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Update appliances
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Paint the kitchen a new color
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Reface or paint cabinets
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Replace cabinet hardware pulls
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Add or change the backsplash
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Update lighting fixtures
Bathroom
Bathrooms, especially in older homes, do not always have the best layout. Renovating them from the ground up allows homeowners to rearrange the floor plan and expand the bathroom’s footprint. A great-looking master bathroom with a good layout can make a difference when it comes time to sell.
However, minor renovations can be done that will also add to the look and value of a home. Any of these will improve the look.
However, minor renovations can be done that will also add to the look and value of a home. Any of these will improve the look.
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Paint the room or add wallpaper
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Switch out the shower head
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Replace mirrors
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Replace the vanity
Attic and basement
Adding useable space is one of the best things a homeowner can do to increase the home’s value. Converting an unused attic or basement into a spare bedroom, office, or playroom creates just as much worth as adding an addition without the added expense. Sometimes, it can be as simple as painting the room and adding furniture.
Landscaping
Often overlooked, landscaping is part of the first impression of the home. A landscaper can design a unique look creating a backyard oasis. However, homeowners may want to go with a simple plan that will be easy to maintain. Landscaping does not have to be expensive. Trimming hedges, adding flowers, weeding the garden, and reseeding bare lawn spots are simple things any homeowner can do.
Entry door
One low-cost but effective renovation is to replace the entry door. After all, it is one of the first things people see as they approach the house, so it sets the stage for what is to come. If the door is in good condition and the homeowner does not want to replace it, a quick paint job can refresh it. While you do not want it to clash with the home’s aesthetic, pick a color that will add interest. Make it stand out from the rest of the houses on the block.
Deck, patio, porch
Homeowners may consider adding a deck, patio, or porch if there is room on the property and in the pocketbook. Most people enjoy sitting on a front porch or grilling out on a deck in the backyard. It creates extra space for entertaining or just relaxing.
This is not the type of project to tackle to prep a house for sale, as there is no 100% return on investment. Instead, it is the type of project that adds value to the homeowner’s life while they live in the home. However, when it comes time to sell, buyers will appreciate the additional outdoor space, which will be a selling point for the home.
This is not the type of project to tackle to prep a house for sale, as there is no 100% return on investment. Instead, it is the type of project that adds value to the homeowner’s life while they live in the home. However, when it comes time to sell, buyers will appreciate the additional outdoor space, which will be a selling point for the home.
Windows
Not only do new windows make a house look better, but they also have features that make them easier to clean inside and out. Additionally, they are also more energy efficient, which saves homeowners money.
Minor renovations
Not every homeowner has the funds for a complete remodel, and in many cases, a major renovation will not have a good return on investment. Often, smaller projects give the most bang for the buck. Here are some low-cost alternatives that can improve the look and feel of the home without breaking the bank.
- Replace hardware, such as kitchen cabinet pulls, door knobs, etc.
- Paint rooms for an instant refresh
- Update lighting fixtures and add lights to dim areas and outdoor spaces
- Create functional spaces and find ways to use unused space. For instance, an empty wall or unused corner can become a small office, extra storage space, etc.
- Power wash the siding or repaint it
- Spruce up the outside
Invest in the Deb Paton Showley Group
Many homeowners overspend on projects only to find they have outspent for their neighborhood. Do not let that happen to you. Before prepping your home for resale, ask a real estate professional what repairs and renovations will give you the highest return on your investment.
Deb Paton Showley is a luxury-certified real estate agent in Kosciusko County. She has won numerous awards for her commitment to clients and her ability to help them navigate the real estate market. Deb and her team have helped people find everything from Lake Wawasee real estate to waterfront homes in Winona Lake, and they can help you too. Contact Deb if you need advice on ROI or anything concerning real estate. Working with Deb is one of the best investments you will ever make.
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock
Deb Paton Showley is a luxury-certified real estate agent in Kosciusko County. She has won numerous awards for her commitment to clients and her ability to help them navigate the real estate market. Deb and her team have helped people find everything from Lake Wawasee real estate to waterfront homes in Winona Lake, and they can help you too. Contact Deb if you need advice on ROI or anything concerning real estate. Working with Deb is one of the best investments you will ever make.
*Header photo courtesy of Shutterstock
