If you are decorating your home, you will likely be doing so to personalize the space that you are living in, or to make it more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. Most of us like to put our own stamp on where we live, with colors and designs that appeal to our own senses. We like to make our homes our own and are not worried about decorating for the sake of others.
But what if you do not plan to live in your current home forever? What if you have plans to move somewhere bigger in the future, or perhaps to downsize when your children move out? If so, you may want to decorate with one eye on what features might add some value to the home. We asked the experts at LA-based Exit Real Estate Consultants what one could do to add value to their home.
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Fixing Structural Issues
Those who want to get the most money when selling their home at a future date should keep on top of structural issues and fix them as they arrive. When a potential buyer finds a house they like, they will hire a property surveyor to make sure all is in order. Any major structural repairs that need to be done could be enough to prevent them from buying the home. At the very least, the cost of these repairs will be reflected in the offer you receive. It is best to take care of these issues yourself as many buyers will not even entertain buying a house in need of major repair.
Create Another Living Space
If you have a cellar or loft, converting either into a living space will definitely add value to your home. However, before you rush out to hire someone to do this for you, consider the cost per square foot of the conversion. This needs to be less than the price per square foot in the area where you live. Another area of the home that could be converted to living space is the garage. If you are not using it for your car and have simply been storing junk in instead, you could think about converting it into a playroom, office, or family room, all of which will add value to the home.
Replace Your Windows
Updating the windows in your property is a terrific way to add value to the home. New energy-efficient windows can transform the exterior look of the property and can help to keep the home insulated. Moreover, because new windows will help you to save money on your energy bills, they will start to pay for themselves as soon as they are installed.
Invest in Solar Panels
Adding solar panels to your home will both save you money and add value to the property. Solar panels are designed to generate electricity. The homeowner will enjoy reduced energy bills while also doing their bit for the environment. A house with solar panels is an attractive option for many potential buyers.
Kitchen Makeover
A new top-of-the range modern kitchen will definitely add value to your home. But even if you don’t want to fully renovate the kitchen space, you could give it a makeover by changing the cupboard doors or simply giving them a good scrub and paint and changing the handles. Making some small changes, such as new light fixtures and removing all the clutter, will give your kitchen a fresh new look that you will enjoy and which will be pleasing to potential buyers should you ever decide to put the house up for sale.