Increasing your Home Value and Investing your Money Wisely

In these uncertain times, protecting your homes value and figuring out how to spend your money wisely can be a challenge.  When considering your home improvement projects you need to factor in both increased resale value and your enjoyment while living in the home when deciding what projects to invest in.

Home improvement projects are different for everyone.  If you plan on being in your home for five to ten years you should gear your projects and choices to your tastes.  If you are going to be in your home for less than five years it is a good idea to think about how your choices would appeal to future buyers.

In increasing the value of your home a mistake most people make is to focus too much on cosmetic improvements without making a real difference to the key features of the property.  You should aim to create more usable space whenever making improvements in order to get your highest return on your investment.

Outdoor living is a fast growing trend in the United States.  A well designed outdoor living space can often times be the most utilized area.  It can be designed with covers, heat and light to make it usable year round.  An attractive outdoor living area is also a great selling point for a home and can significantly raise your home’s value. 

Five Projects that Add Value to Your Home:

1.     A backyard deck is a great investment.  It can be covered, screened, heated with radiant heat and lit for year round usage.

2.     Garages and sheds can add considerably to home value.  Other advantages include increased storage space within the home and protecting valued items.  Versatility of the building can also create more space by adding home office space, a playroom or craft/workshop.

3.     Adding charm and beauty to your garden with arbors, trellises, gazebos and pergolas can add to curb appeal as well as provide more outdoor living spaces.

4.     Bathroom remodels if kept conservative can increase home value.  Great lighting, new fixtures, and updated flooring can make a huge difference without breaking the bank.

5.     Fencing to provide protection, security or privacy can increase value and create comfortable outdoor living space.  There are many options available from wood to metal, plastic and stone.  Privacy can be created by fencing, trellises, screens, pergolas or obelisks.  They can be complimented with trees, shrubs or climbing plants.

In trying times our homes become a harbor in the storm.  Investing in the comfort, safety and enjoyment we get from our homes and family can never be a bad investment.