Thursday, May 14, 2015

Summer Home Improvements that Add Value


Are you considering making home improvements this summer to your home? The best home improvement projects will not only add value to the property, but will also make it more enjoyable for you and your family. However, not all improvements will add value. For example, spending on painting the walls is one area which many believe adds value, while in fact owners will see less than 50% of a return, if any. Consider these options instead when you are considering where to make improvements to your home that add personality and value.

Fix it up - Sounds simple enough, but people really don't consider fixing the items in the summer home as an improvement. If deck wood is rotting or if your faucets are leaking, simply repairing and replacing these things will help add value to your summer home. No matter which areas of the home need fixing, it is better to repair these first before you hire contractors to begin new constructions. If you plan on selling the home, buyers will want things to work and look good. And, if you plan on keeping the property, you want to know everything is in working condition. For a reasonable price, you can hire a great handyman to perform all repairs for you.

The lawn - Curb appeal is what draws people to a home. You don't have to spend a ton on fancy landscaping ideas, but nice floral arrangements or a new tree in the front lawn is inviting. Maintaining your lawn will definitely add to the home's value. It is more aesthetically pleasing, and it will also bring you joy to see how great your summer home looks when the lawn and garden are properly maintained.

Consider new lighting - New outdoor lighting will also help increase your summer home's value, plus it doesn't have to be that costly of a project to take on. Run some lights up and down the driveway, or add a new light post to the front porch. Having a nicely lit path is not only easier to get from the front driveway to the door, but it also looks better from a distance.

Shutters - New shutters—especially in areas where adverse weather conditions are a problem—will also add value to your summer home. If it is a hurricane or heavy storm area, shutters will protect the windows and glass along the home's front. Adding new shutters will also dress up the front of the home, as they come in numerous colors, shapes, and design options. Adding curb appeal, adding protection, and adding value for a fairly low cost makes adding shutters to your summer home a wise investment option.

There are a number of projects you can perform when it comes to increasing your summer home's value. These are some of the least costly options, and they won't take too much time to complete. Plus, most homeowners can even do themselves. At a low cost and high return value these are some projects to take on if you wish to increase your home's value this summer.