There are lots of ways you can update your home and make it more suitable for the way you live today, but which renovations will also add value to your property?
Let’s look at six home improvements that should make your home much more liveable and increase its value.
1. Bathroom Remodel
If you have a limited budget, a small cosmetic bathroom renovation will make a big difference to the look, feel and functionality of this space. Cosmetic renovations include replacing or resurfacing the tub, replacing wall and floor tiles, as well as the sink, vanity and fixtures. On the other hand, a major renovation can include altering walls, moving plumbing, replacing the toilet, shower, tub and vanity. Essentially a major renovation involves ripping it all out and starting again! This major renovation is usually required because the layout doesn’t work for you and you want more luxurious fixtures and fittings.
2. Landscaping
Curb appeal is everything when you want to sell, so it’s good to have the front yard looking well-tended and attractive, as it adds value to your property. The easiest strategy (which works for the back yard as well) is to remove weeds and dead plants, lay new turf, cut down or trim bushes or trees that prevent natural light entering your home, and add fresh healthy plants with lots of colour.
3. Kitchen Remodel
As with bathrooms, you can either do a cosmetic renovation that keeps the same floorplan or a major overhaul where the actual layout of the kitchen is changed. For a minor improvement, you can reface the cabinets, change the handles, replace the bench tops, and update the major appliances. For a major renovation, you can knock down walls to create a large open-plan eat-in kitchen, add new lighting and flooring, replace the benchtops with granite, and the cabinetry and appliances with more expensive options.
4. Exterior Painting
If your home is more than 20 years old, the exterior paint is likely looking old and worn. It doesn’t take much time to repaint the exterior of your home, which you can do yourself if you are on a limited budget. With more money in your pocket, however, you can pay a professional to repaint your home’s exterior. If you decide on this option, then also consider updating your home’s exterior colour scheme to something more modern, whilst also keeping the style of your home in mind. A new coat of paint to the exterior of your home can definitely add value!
5. Addition of Deck
There’s no arguing that Aussies love outdoor decks, so if your deck has seen better days or if you don’t even have a deck, fixing this problem will add value to your home. Depending on the state of your deck, you might get away with replacing a few timbers and a fresh stain or new paint. If it needs a total replacement, then you can consider extending the deck around the side of the house, because more decking equals more added value.
6. Window Replacement
Replacing small, poky windows with large expanses of glass will definitely add value to your home. Replacing your windows with products that are more energy efficient, and helps to keep your home at a stable temperature all year round, is also a good option.
For help renovating or building your kitchen or bathroom, call us on 1300 842 736.
