Whether you want to enhance your home’s current aesthetic or sell the house in the near future, now’s the time to think about its current market value. The real estate market is a tough challenge for some people because they fail to make the necessary changes to improve their current home values. If you’re one of these people, here are three of the easiest home upgrades to increase market value. Whether it’s with a kitchen or bathroom remodel, a finished basement, or landscaping, these improvements will increase buyer demand and asking prices.
Kitchen or Bathroom Remodel
One of the easiest ways to improve any home value is with a kitchen or bathroom remodel. These are two home improvement projects with the highest returns on investment (ROI). Many people recoup about two-thirds of their initial investment.
With a kitchen or bathroom remodel, you want to start small. Replace fixtures, appliances, lighting, cabinets, and hardware first before moving on to floors, countertops, and cabinetry. The more you put into these projects, the higher ROI you can expect.
Finished Basement
Another great home improvement project is a finished basement. This looks better on market listings, and you’ll also have an additional living space in your home. A finished basement can serve many purposes—whether you plan to add a home gym, family room, or bedroom, you can do so and still expect a nice recoup.
If you currently use your basement for storage, now’s the time to declutter and get rid of unwanted junk. You can still use parts of a finished basement for storage, too. The possibilities are endless.
Landscaping and Decking
Landscaping and decking upgrades remain some of the easiest home upgrades to increase market value. No one wants to buy a dull or dreary-looking home. That’s why many real estate agents stress the importance of curb appeal. Lighting, landscaping, and decking are all important facets of prized curb appeal because they accentuate your home’s exterior. For example, consider the possibilities of a plastic fence over traditional wood. It retains the same aesthetic, but the low maintenance and natural moisture and insect resistance make it a cost-efficient alternative to traditional timber. Additionally, prune shrubs, trees, and flower beds to give a greener finish.