Which Upgrades Offer the Best Return When Selling a Home?

Transform your home with these simple upgrades for maximum ROI.

How do I get the most bang for my buck when it comes to home improvements? If you are planning to sell your house make sure to consider whether they will net you the biggest return on investment since not all home renovation projects will significantly increase the value of your home. Today, I'll go over what projects to avoid, what repairs to make, and how to select a good contractor to do the work.

1. Upgrades to avoid. While upgrading is a great way to build on your home’s existing value, there are plenty of upgrades that aren’t worth your time or trouble. Upgrading your kitchen to top-of-the-line or professional grade, or making lavish landscaping changes aren’t very cost-effective. You also want to avoid partial upgrades at any cost. While finished projects may net you at least something in return, a half-done project might actually hurt your final sales price. When you embark on a project, make sure to see it through to completion. Don’t rip out the cabinets in your kitchen, tear up the tile in your bathroom, or pull up the carpet in the living room unless you plan to finish the job.

"Strategic investments in your home can make a significant difference in its sale price."

2. Upgrades that work. Adding to your home’s value isn’t impossible. You’ve just got to pick the right projects to pursue. Consider replacing your garage door with something newer and fresher. Improvements that catch the eye and make a good first impression are almost always worth looking into. While you don’t want to go too in-depth, making sure that the landscaping is clean and nice is a great first step. Inside, look for mid-range remodels and touch-ups like fresh carpeting and paint. Don’t break the bank, but make sure things are up-to-date and functional.

3. Now for the contractor. One of the most critical considerations for any home improvement project is the contractor that you choose to perform the work. The right contractor will help you control costs, suggest high-quality additions that fit your budget, and get the details right the first time. In order to find the best contractor for the job, start by asking around your friends, family, and even things like a neighborhood group. Generate a list of the top candidates and interview each of them to find the best fit. Don’t just review their proposals, however. You also want to ask for examples of their finished work and any licenses or certifications that they possess.

As you consider preparing your home for sale, remember that strategic investments in your home can make a significant difference in its sale price. As with anything related to real estate, the answers could change based on your location and comparable sales. I'm here to help. Contact me by phone or email for more personalized suggestions and any questions you might have and I’ll go the distance for you. Let's work together to get the best possible price for your home!