Renovations and Upgrades: Bring it to
Bank Part 2In Part 1 of this article series we discussed kitchens, bathrooms and bedrooms; three areas of home that can boost value when updated or improved. If you have not yet read Part 1, visit http://www.voncannonrealestate.com to view it. Now, it’s time to talk about other rooms in house. And let’s not forget exterior upgrades. Even a quick and simple facelift makes home more attractive and worth more. Use strategic planning to invest your money in places that count most. You will be pleased with return.
Simple Details Often Overlooked
When you choose to renovate a living room, den or dining room -- remember, most important and valuable improvements are sometimes in details. You may want to open out a wall to change floor design, especially if you live in a home built in 1950’s, 60’s or 70’s. Again, a chair rail (especially in dining room) and crown molding can increase value. An upgrade in flooring, windows, decks, screened in porches and paint can all equal perfect facelift. Use light or neutral colored paint to reflect light. Fireplaces can also add on about $3,000 to an appraisal. Just remember wood fireplaces are declining in popularity. Fireplaces that use gas or are converted to burn gas are more popular.
Simple and Effective Upgrades for Any Room
Consider updating dirty and chipped wall sockets. Also, you may want to replace light switches and light fixtures. Make sure lights, wall sockets and light switches flow with color scheme or mood you are trying to evoke with room. For example: do not use a rooster shaped light fixture in a bathroom. All of these changes will make a definite statement in a room.
Don’t Waste Garage and Basement
Think long and hard before you turn garage or basement into a room. Although this may increase square footage of your home value is in space as is. In Virginia, a one-car garage equals $10,000 credit with appraiser. If garage is converted appraiser counts only 1/3 of square footage and adds it to your home value. As is, garages and basements in good condition can be an excellent commodity when selling your home. Keep this in mind when prioritizing renovations.
