What renovations are worth doing, and which ones don’t really pay off?  With spring making us want to update and refresh everything from our wardrobe to our kitchen, we thought it would be good to do some digging on what renovations are worth the investment.  So what actually adds value to your home?

Here are a few quick tips to help you evaluate what renovations are worth doing to YOUR home:

  • Flashier isn’t always better. Buyers want to know that maintenance is taken care of.  They can dream of designing their own kitchen, but if they think they have to replace the roof or the furnace… that isn’t as fun.  And it’s a big turnoff if maintenance isn’t up to standards.  So don’t dismiss the idea of a new, but not flashy, update.
  • Curb appeal gets buyers in the door. You house can be gorgeous inside, but if the view from the street isn’t inviting, no one will come in.  You would be amazed how much a fresh paint job, new siding, or updated landscaping can help add value to your home just by making a good first impression on buyers.  Make it look like a place they want to live.
  • Update… or addition? Think about what’s functional in your home, and also what people expect from a house in your neighborhood.  Say your home only has one bathroom, but most around you have two.  Instead of spicing up and remodeling the one, your money would probably be better spent on putting in a second bathroom.
  • If you’re not planning on moving very soon… make sure you like the renovation for yourself too. It doesn’t make sense to put in a glamorous kitchen range if you never cook.  If you’d love a steam shower, go that route instead.  Love where you’re at.
  • Investigate your ROI. What you get back on your investment often is tied to the condition of your neighborhood, the comparison of your home to other homes in your area, etc.  It goes back to… what are people expecting when they walk into a house in this neighborhood?  There is no one size fits all, but with the right knowledge, you’ll know what renovations are worth doing for your home.

 

Renovations can be so fun!  Hopefully these tips can help you consolidate your list to what renovations are worth it for your family and situation.  And if you are updating to move and need a mortgage, give us a call!  We’re a Christian Mortgage Lender with the same values you have – faith and family.  And we’d love to help!

 

Best,

Audrey

The Christian Mortgage Mom

Audrey