Home Upgrades Worth Every Penny (and Some You Can Skip)
Upgrading your home can increase its value, make it a more pleasant place to live, and possibly save you money in the long run. However, not all upgrades provide a good return. Some improvements won’t age well and can even hurt the resale value of your home. If you’re thinking about upgrades, you need to know which upgrades are smart and which ones may not be worth the cost.
The six upgrades worth pursuing
The following upgrades provide a good return and can make your home feel cozier.
1. Windows and doors
Upgrading your windows and doors is about more than just aesthetics – it’s the best way to increase the energy efficiency in your home and see long-term savings on your energy bills. Properly installed new windows will increase curb appeal and keep your house warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
2. A basic kitchen remodel
A strategic kitchen update can be both practical and aesthetically pleasing while increasing the value of your home. Here are some ideas that won’t break the bank:
· Repaint the cabinets. Replacing kitchen cabinets is expensive, but you can get a whole new look and feel with a fresh coat of paint and new hardware.
· Get energy-efficient appliances. The less energy your appliances consume, the lower your energy bills will be year-round.
· Go for quartz countertops. Even though everyone loves granite, quartz countertops are more durable, require less maintenance, and are typically less expensive.
· Upgrade the lighting. New light fixtures and LED light strips are an affordable way to upgrade the lighting in your kitchen. You can also choose energy-efficient options to reduce energy consumption.
3. Bathroom upgrades
You probably spend more time in the bathroom than you realize, so why not make it a bit more cozy? There are a handful of things you can do to upgrade your bathroom without spending a fortune:
· Install low-flow fixtures. Water-saving faucets, toilets, and shower heads will reduce your water bills and save you money long-term.
· Upgrade your walk-in shower. If you don’t have a tub and want your shower to look a little nicer, consider a shower upgrade.
· Redo the floors. Your bathroom floor can make all the difference. Tile tends to look better than vinyl and will hold up better over time.
· Get heated floors. Heated floors are a small luxury that can make your bathroom feel like a palace.
· Install touchless faucets. Touchless faucets are a high-tech addition that won’t break the bank. They look nice and are really convenient for washing your hands.
4. Energy-efficient improvements
There are a handful of energy-efficient improvements you can make that will increase the value of your home and reduce your expenses over time. For example, you can install solar panels, a smart thermostat, a tankless water heater, energy-efficient windows and doors, and upgraded attic insulation.
5. New flooring
Floors can make your home look beautiful or drab, so if you don’t like the way your floors look, consider an upgrade. Investing in durable flooring will add value to your home without needing constant maintenance.
Hardwood floors will last longer than carpet and appeal to more buyers if you decide to sell your home. However, if that’s not in your budget, consider luxury vinyl plank – it looks like wood, but it’s cheaper and also water-resistant.
6. Curb-appeal enhancements
Attractive landscaping and exteriors can increase the value of your home. For landscaping, consider choosing native, drought-resistant plants that don’t require much water or maintenance. Where exterior upgrades are concerned, get a fresh paint job, add better lighting to improve security and create a welcoming ambiance, and consider paving your walkways to make a good first impression.
Three upgrades you can probably skip
While there are plenty of upgrades worth pursuing, some options can be a waste of money and others might hinder your ability to sell your property in the future.
1. Trendy updates
Trends come and go, so if you try to sell your home after making trendy upgrades, it might not be appealing to buyers. Trends include things like open shelving in the kitchen, oversized tubs, all-white interiors, barn doors, and overly-personalized features.
2. Expensive smart tech
While it’s nice to have some smart home tech, you don’t need to spend $5,000 on a smart refrigerator that displays its contents when you tap on the door. Other smart tech can be nice to have, but too many gadgets can be off-putting to traditional buyers.
3. Remodels that limit functionality
Certain modifications can reduce the functionality of a room. For example, eliminating a bedroom to use it as a walk-in closet, removing a bathtub, converting a garage into a living space, unnecessary walls or room partitions, and over-personalized home offices.
Make smart choices
Investing in the right home upgrades will enhance your daily life and property value at once. By focusing on practical, high-ROI improvements and avoiding costly fads, you can create a stylish home without breaking the bank.
