When it comes to selling your home, first impression always matters. Potential buyers will make up their minds about a property within seconds of arriving and often before they even step inside.
That’s why a well-maintained and visually appealing exterior is so important when it comes to resale value. In fact, according to the National Association of Realtors, investing in curb appeal can increase your home’s resale value by up to 7%.
From landscaping and lighting to exterior finishes and architectural details, we’ve listed promising home improvement ideas as well as actionable tips and insights to help you achieve the best possible results. Let’s get started!
11 Home Improvement Projects That Add the Most Value
Whether it’s your front yard or back deck, there are a number of exterior home improvement projects that can make a big impact on your property’s market value. Here are some of them:
1. Landscaping
A well-manicured lawn, fresh plants, and neat borders can greatly enhance a property’s curb appeal. Investing in landscaping can increase a home’s value by up to 5%. Besides making your home look great, landscaping can also help with energy efficiency by providing shade and reducing the amount of sunlight that hits your home.
2. Adding a Deck
Adding a deck to your home can create an additional outdoor living space and increase your home’s value by up to 76%. Decks are especially popular in areas with warm weather but can be a great addition to any home. A deck can be used for entertaining guests, relaxing, and even as a space for outdoor dining.
If you’re thinking about adding a deck to your home, consider the materials you’ll use, the size and shape of the deck, and any additional features you want to include.
3. Replacing the Front Door
Your front door is one of the first things people see when they come to your home, so it’s crucial to choose a door that enhances your home’s exterior and ensures optimum security.
Replacing an old or outdated front door with a newer, more attractive model can have a significant impact on your home’s value. In fact, according to a study by Remodeling Magazine, replacing a front door can bring a return on investments of up to 91%. Choose a door that fits with the style of your home, and consider adding a bold color or decorative glass to make it stand out.
4. Updating the Garage Door
Replacing garage door is one of the home improvement ideas that many often overlooked. The garage door is a prominent feature of many homes’ exteriors, and updating it can significantly impact curb appeal. Garage door replacement can recoup up to 94.5% of its cost at resale.
5. Installing New Windows
Upgrading your home’s windows can enhance its appearance while improving energy efficiency. Replacing old windows with newer, more energy-efficient models can bring up to 80% ROI. In addition to adding value to your home, new windows can help with insulation, reduce noise, and improve your home’s overall comfort.
6. Adding Outdoor Lighting
According to a survey by the National Association of Home Builders, outdoor lighting is one of the top home features that buyers look for, making it an excellent investment for your home.
Outdoor lighting is an easy and affordable way to improve your home’s appearance and make it more inviting. Installing lighting along pathways, around trees and bushes, and on the exterior of your home can add a dramatic effect to your home’s overall look.
7. Painting Home Exterior
A fresh coat of paint can go a long way in updating the look of your home’s exterior. Not only can it give your home a new, modern look, but certain types of paint can also help protect it from outdoor elements, such as moisture, dust, and sunlight.
When choosing a color, consider the style and architecture of your home, as well as the colors of neighboring houses. Neutral colors are often a safe choice and can appeal to a broader range of buyers.
8. Updating Roofing and Siding
Your home’s roofing and siding are crucial for protecting it from rain and sunlight, so updating them can definitely affect your home’s value. Replacing old roofing can recoup up to 60% of its cost at resale, while updating siding can recoup up to 77%.
Choose materials for roofing and siding that is highly durable, easy to maintain, and complement the style of your home. For instance, if you live in a coastal area, you may want to consider materials that are resistant to salt spray and wind damage.
9. Putting A Fence
Installing a well-made fence can greatly enhance your home’s visual appeal and security. Depending on where you live, fences can vary in height from four to nine feet and are often built with materials such as wood or stone. Although a chain-link bar provides good security, it offers a different level of privacy and aesthetic charm than a wooden fence or a stone wall.
10. Building A Shed
A gazebo is built for entertainment, whereas a new shed is meant for storage. Whether you’re clearing up space in your garage or creating room for a new hobby, a shed can unexpectedly increase the value of your property.
Moreover, shed projects come in different styles and price ranges, so there is something to suit your needs. It’s essential to remember that increasing the amount of functional space in your property enhances its value.
11. Going Green
Eco-friendly features are becoming increasingly popular among homebuyers, and going green can help improve your home’s value. Some eco-friendly improvements you can make to your home’s exterior include installing solar panels, adding a rainwater harvesting system, and using sustainable landscaping practices.
Homes with eco-friendly features can sell for up to 4% more than comparable homes without these features. Additionally, eco-friendly improvements can help reduce your home’s energy costs and carbon footprint.
Why do houses always increase in value?
Real estate is often considered one of the most secure long-term investments, as property values tend to increase over time. Aside from home improvement, there are several other reasons why houses appreciate:
- Population Growth – As the population grows, the demand for housing increases and can drive up home prices. This is why in areas with limited housing inventory and a high population, the value of homes tends to rise more quickly.
- Inflation – Inflation can also drive up the value of homes over time. As the cost of goods and services increases, so does the cost of materials and labor needed in building new homes. This can lead to an increase in the value of existing homes.
- Economic Growth – When the economy is strong, wages tend to increase, making it easier for people to buy homes. This can lead to increased demand for housing and a rise in home prices.
- Low Interest Rates – Low interest rates make it more affordable for people to buy homes, which can drive up demand and increase home prices. When interest rates are low, it can be a good time to buy a home.
Homeowners can take advantage of this trend by investing in their homes and leveraging their increased equity to fund other investments or financial goals.
Key Takeaway
There are many exterior home improvement projects you can make to increase your property’s resale value. Whether you decide to invest in landscaping, add a deck, or update your roofing, it’s essential to consider the style of your home, the local real estate market, and your budget. By making informed decisions and investing in improvements that are likely to provide a high ROI, you can improve your home’s appearance and boost your property value.
Achieve your financial goals with the expert help of Cedar Home Loans.
Property values tend to increase over time, leading to a buildup of equity that can be used to fund future investments, such as home improvement, education, or retirement. Homeowners can leverage this increased equity by refinancing their mortgages at a lower interest rate, reducing their monthly payments, and freeing up cash for other investments.
Cedar Home Loans offers a range of loan and mortgage solutions to help homeowners reap the benefits of their increased home value. By working with a professional that is knowledgeable with Keystone home loans, you can explore your options, make informed decisions, and access the resources you need to achieve your financial goals.
