Now that Fall is here, it is a perfect time to go beyond routine cleaning and take steps to upgrade your home. Although the term “home improvement” often brings up discussions of hiring a contractor and other professionals for massive overhauls, there are a variety of home upgrades that can be done relatively quickly.
Below are a few suggestions on how you can make your home look great for yourself, and catch the eye of prospective buyers if you choose to put your home on the market down the road.
Laying a foundation for success
The process of upgrading your home should begin outside virtually everyone will see your property exterior when they arrive at your property. The simplest step you can take is to tidy up your yard. Ensure that your lawn is maintained, leaves are bagged, trees are trimmed, and weeds are removed.
You also should explore giving your front door a fresh coat of paint, planting colorful flowers, washing the driveway, and purchasing a welcoming door mat. If you are interested in gardening, it is good to know that plant fruit trees, maple trees, oak trees, and evergreens are popular with homeowners. When planning your garden, be sure to check which plants are best suited for your climate.
Rethinking the kitchen
Of all the rooms in your home, the kitchen is one of the most important because you are bound to spend significant amounts of time in the space. Adding an island to your kitchen is a relatively simple step that immediately makes your kitchen appear more spacious. To extend the functionality, you can add overhead lighting or storage.
Upgrading old appliances is another project you can tackle during the Fall. Although there is a significant upfront cost to purchasing a new range, stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher, the investment often pays for itself. This is because the upgrades increase your home value and reduce your utility cost.
It is best to stick to stainless steel appliances when possible as many real estate agents report that it is the most in-demand appliance style among homeowners.
Smart devices
The popularity of digital assistants such as Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant means that all homeowners should consider how to incorporate smart technology into their home. Smart thermostats, smoke detectors, lighting, and security cameras are just a few examples of the technology you can incorporate into your home.
By investing in these technologies, you will be able to control your home from your smartphone or tablet. Since smart technology is so popular, there are a variety of solutions for homeowners to choose from, at price points to fit virtually any budget.
Moving to a new location
While purchasing a new home or changing locations might not be on your mind right now, if the need ever comes up, you should not hesitate to contact a real estate expert to help you evaluate your options. As there is no shortage of real estate agents, you should be able to find a professional that can assist with your exact needs.
For more on COVID-19 and the real estate comeback, check out HomeLight’s Top Agent Insight Survey from Q2.
