Most homeowners invest in home improvement projects after they move into their new house, but it can be hard to figure out which upgrades are worth spending money on. When deciding how to improve your property, it’s important that you prioritize your quality of life, while still understanding the way your choices will impact the value of your home and its likely sale price, if you ever put it on the market. For anyone looking for more information before making any big decisions, read on for home improvement tips that are worth the extra spending.
What home improvement projects should you invest in?
It’s important to prioritize projects that can prevent significant damage and make your home safer for yourself and your family. Your doors and windows are a good place to start. For example, Texas windows need to be well-maintained and high-quality so you can avoid cracks and crevices that let in hot draft in the summer.
In Florida, it’s common to invest in storm windows for hurricane season. Cracks and crevices can also let in moisture, in addition to allergens like pollen and mold spores. If you notice significant wear and tear, it might be time to consider a new window or a replacement window. Make sure you read the reviews before hiring a contractor, real experience is the best way to judge.
Your gutters can also create the potential for significant property damage if neglected. A clogged gutter can damage everything from your roof to the foundation of your home, so it’s best to have them cleaned at least twice yearly. Your HVAC system should also be inspected annually and have its filters changed every 1-3 months. The problem with neglecting your HVAC is that it can allow the toxins and pollutants into your home, which is an especially big problem if you suffer from conditions like asthma or allergies. Many companies offer packages that cover the installation and maintenance of multiple fixtures in your home, which can be a good idea for newer homeowners without technical expertise.
Another way to choose additional projects is to look at the expected return on investment. While some projects can be worth it purely for the other benefits they provide, there are a lot of home upgrades that can also improve the value of your property. Landscaping, small-scale kitchen remodels, and bathroom renovations are often at the top of the list for prospective buyers. A quality contractor can also make the difference between a good job and a great job when it comes to maximizing the value of a project.
Is going green worth it?
You can make smaller changes on an individual level, like using green laundry detergent, in addition to making larger, more structural changes to your home. Switching the eco-friendly products you use on anything that comes into contact with your skin is a great idea for multiple reasons, including reducing the number of harsh chemicals you come into contact with. Lifestyle changes from eco-friendly laundry detergents to smart thermostat usage to reduce energy consumption help the planet, while also saving you money that you can reinvest into other home improvements.
The reality is that prospective buyers are starting to prioritize homes that minimize their environmental impact. Smart technology can make a huge difference in the energy efficiency of your appliances, and you can find everything from smart washers and dryers to smart thermostats and home security systems now. Since smart devices and eco-friendly technology seem likely to continue to saturate the market, going green is a great idea for savvy homeowners looking to invest in their property.
Home improvement is tricky, as finding the right balance between improving your day-to-day life and making smart investments can be complicated, especially if you want to stick to a strict budget. Still, if you’re willing to put in the time and effort and stick to your budget, you’ll find that you can create the home of your dreams, while still ensuring that your home will maintain its value should you choose to sell one day. Don’t rush the renovation process and make sure you comparison shop before deciding which contractor to use for a given project. As long as you’re patient and conscientious about your decision-making, you’ll find yourself living in your dream home sooner rather than later.
