Investing in home improvements is a great way to upgrade your property and increase its value. But it’s important to avoid over-improving your home, as some projects can actually decrease its resale value. These projects are often too personalized or go over the top in style. They also may be too expensive for prospective buyers.
Luckily, there are plenty of low-cost home improvement projects that can significantly boost your property’s resale value and curb appeal. From installing a new front door to refinishing old cabinets, these small changes can make a big impact on the look and feel of your home.
A kitchen backsplash is a popular home renovation that adds a fresh and updated touch to your kitchen. It can also protect your walls from spills and splatters and makes cleaning a breeze. You can find tile and sticky peel kitchen backsplashes at most hardware stores for an affordable price.
The addition of a garden or yard can have a positive effect on your property’s resale, especially if you use it to grow fresh vegetables, herbs and flowers. You can also get a great return on investment by planting a fruit tree or even just putting up some raised planters.
Another home improvement project with a high ROI is a wood deck or patio. If you’re planning to build a deck, however, it’s best to have a professional construct it. Not only will this ensure that the deck is safe and secure, but it will also help you avoid costly repairs down the road.
Installing a sunroom is an expensive home improvement that typically has a low return on investment. Not only do you have to pay for the materials and installation, but you’ll also spend a lot of time maintaining it. It’s best to save up the money for this project and opt for a more cost-effective alternative like a covered porch or screened in deck.
There are several financing options available for home renovations. A personal loan is an unsecured option with competitive rates, while a mortgage cash-out refinance allows you to tap into the equity in your home to cover the costs of the remodel. Using a credit card with a 0% introductory APR can also be a smart choice, as you’ll earn rewards while paying down your debt.
The best way to determine the lowest home improvement for your property is to consult a real estate agent. They’ll be able to tell you what types of upgrades are most popular in your area and give you ideas for projects that will attract prospective buyers. They’ll also be able to recommend contractors who offer competitive prices. You can also search for a home improvement or repair grant program online. These programs are available for low and moderate income households, and are administered by local governments. They’re usually located under the social services, housing, or community development departments on a county by county basis.