It is possible to increase the value of a house, but sometimes renovations can become a deciding factor. Homes that are consistent in style and finishes are generally worth more than those that show different influences. Residential appraisers often say that a true value killer is a remodel that isn’t finished.
The curb appeal of the house has to be consistent. It is possible to increase the value of an older home while keeping up appearances. Appraisers have a system that takes into account both age and maintenance, for example C1 indicates that the property is new. C2 means any age if recently renovated, C3 well maintained, C4 adequately maintained with minimal repairs, C5 deliverable but needs help, and C6 serious defects.
If you have white appliances in your kitchen, investing in a stainless steel dishwasher is not good for the value of your home. It’s highly recommended that if you renovate, you don’t get modern countertops while you still have old appliances. It’s best to do enough so that the appraiser can classify the changes as a new kitchen or an updated kitchen.
Neighbors don’t have to be human to damage your home’s value. A power station, a school or a cemetery can reduce the price of a property. If you let garden art get out of hand or have too much Elvis, you have a value killer.
Homeowners often have to choose between an improvement they would really love to have and one that would prove to be a better investment. If your home is on the market or you want to refinance, you can take steps to ensure you receive credit for the improvements you’re planning.
Homes for sale ads often emphasize kitchen features such as stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and travertine tile. This is a good guide to the current characteristics and trends of popular cuisine. Real estate agents advertise properties that they know are in demand. This is also a great guide if you are planning to update your kitchen.
Kitchen features that are currently in high demand include:
• Cabinets – Maple is currently the most popular. It used to be cherry cabinets, but Maple outdid them this year.
• Popular colors for kitchens are gray and beige.
• Contemporary design style is not so popular anymore. Shaker style is now the new trend.
• Granite and quartz countertops remain the most popular kitchen feature and remain the number one choice.
• Energy efficient LED lighting is the most popular.
Top designers often recommend repairing cabinets rather than replacing them. This is cheaper and you can only change the cabinet doors, while the original cabinet structure remains the same. Wood floors are popular. The most economical options for hardwood flooring are engineered wood flooring made with a plywood backing with a real hardwood veneer.
Lights are essential kitchen features and are recommended for any well-designed kitchen. The lights can be installed in strategic places to create a soft atmosphere.
Another hot trend for 2014 is commercial-style stoves and other useful built-in appliances. Stainless steel appliances are still the most demanded in kitchens. Stainless steel appliances are in high demand and can add value and convenience to your home, but updates should be consistent throughout the kitchen. Stainless steel appliances may do little to increase the value if the vinyl flooring dates from the 1960s. A kitchen island is almost essential and a winner for most home buyers.
A fresh coat of interior paint in a neutral color can add value to a home. Get expert advice from your real estate agent before deciding on color. Vinyl flooring is outdated. Try getting rid of vinyl by replacing it with laminate flooring or ceramic tile. Home buyers also prefer granite countertops over laminate countertops. Countertops can be replaced with ceramic tile if granite countertops are too expensive. A large window over the kitchen sink is also a good idea, if space allows.
Curb appeal is a very important aspect if you plan to sell your home. Painting the exterior of your home is always a good place to start your improvements. Choose a color that matches the period of your home. You want your home to make a good first impression. Pay attention to peeling paint and crooked hanging shutters. A well kept and attractive front yard will add value to your home.
Some improvements may make the house more attractive, but will not significantly increase the resale value. A large, expensive remodel, like adding a second story, may not add value if the house is located in a neighborhood of small houses.
Create a well-designed living room with great ideas.
You can set a cozy atmosphere in the living room using your imagination. The living room is usually the first area that visitors will see and should make them feel at home. You can create a well-designed area with great ideas that reflect your personality. New ideas will inspire you. We’ll take a look at space, color, furniture arrangement, lighting, windows, a fireplace, a centerpiece, and how to customize it.
The following ideas are easy and affordable.
• Paint always works wonders in a room. Use warm, neutral colors for the living room. You can use bright colors, as long as they match.
• Allow room for traffic in your living room.
• The furniture must be placed according to the space.
• Lighting is an important complement to highlight some areas. Dramatic lighting usually creates the most amazing atmosphere.
• A large window will allow the flow of natural light and provide a beautiful view of the garden.
• Decorate the fireplace.
• Invest in a beautiful painting or a large mirror.
• Add exciting ideas and details to your living room. Place paintings, vases and sculptures where they look best.
• Place a bouquet of fresh flowers on the coffee table.
It is always a good idea to invest in more timeless vases, sculptures and lamps. Fashion trends are expensive and don’t last long. Plan ahead before spending money on paint or lighting.
The living room is the most popular area in a house. You have to be comfortable with the ideas as you will most likely spend a lot of time in the room. Try to stay in touch with the style that you would like in the living room.
If you plan to sell your home, make improvements before it goes on the market or before the real estate agent arrives. Try not to leave evidence that you are busy fixing broken windows or tiles. A potential buyer may not be able to envision what the house will look like once it is finished.
How is your house from the outside? Remove clutter from the yard. If your driveway is cracked, now is the time to fix it. Make sure all the windows are sparkling clean and don’t forget the walls. Is your front door clean or does it need a coat of paint or wood protection?
First impressions are important, and the potential buyer will ring the bell and have time to look around. It’s a good idea to make sure all exterior lights are working, as the buyer can come and view the house after hours. If there is a pool, it must be spotlessly clean.
When the buyer enters the house, you want the person to see a clean and tidy interior. Make sure carpets and floors are spotless. Messy things need to be removed. It is important that your home smell fresh and clean. Bad smells will definitely kill the deal.
Messy rooms seem smaller. Remove all the clutter in the bedrooms. Make sure closets are organized and clean. Clean your kitchen from top to bottom. All appliances must be sparkling clean. Clean your bathrooms, scrub sinks, tubs, and toilets. Clean mirrors, cabinet handles, and light switch plates.
Some sellers forget to clean the foundations and garages. Use cleaning solutions to remove stains from the floor. Once he removed all the clutter, he washed and cleaned her house from top to bottom and inside out, her house is ready for the show.