New Years Resolutions: Add Lasting Value to Your Home with these 5 Home Improvements

Thinking about that home renovation project you never got around to? Dreaming of those little changes that you can make to your home for the new year? If you have a list of things that you want to work on around your house, this is a great time to start on those New Year’s resolutions.

While some projects may require more money, there are easy ways to make simple changes that can increase the value in your home and make it visually appealing. So let’s take a look at a few home improvement projects that you can work on now to increase your home’s value:

1. Add New Siding
New siding can give you more curb appeal and increase your home’s value by up to 10%. Whether you choose a vinyl siding or a fiber cement version, some appraisers find that the new look draws buyers in. Vinyl is a low-cost and easy installation. It’s also low maintenance. Vinyl siding increases the overall value of your property.

Fiber cement siding, on the other hand, is more expensive and still raises the value of the home. Potential home buyers will look at the overall quality of the home based on research from the National Association of Home Builders.

2. Upgrade Your Kitchen
If you’ve watched any of the kitchen remodeling shows, then you know that regutting a kitchen can be very expensive, but there are ways to keep costs down and still have a new look that adds value. Minor kitchen remodeling work can be done over a weekend and can include great features like a new floor, new counter tops or a new island in the center of your kitchen to increase your counter and storage space. Kitchen upgrades can run on average about $40,000-60,000, but the lasting effect is what’s important. While it may increase the home’s overall value, it can be aesthetically pleasing for you and your family.

3. Upgrade Your Deck/Patio Space
Like the idea of an outdoor living space? Want that new brick patio or an outdoor fire pit? There are several great ways to turn your outdoor space into a tropical oasis or fun family play area and you can do it on a budget. The American Institute of Architects suggests that more people are looking for ways to enjoy their outdoor living spaces whether it’s making changes to their patio and grounds or adding a new deck.

Upgrading these spaces is also on the rise because you can make all kinds of changes that are relatively cheap. To upgrade your patio or deck, you may find that you can find a new finish that will run anywhere from $8 up to $150 per square foot. That gives you a lot of room – and selections for that new addition.

4. Adding a New Bedroom or Office
Big on everyone’s list is more space, or changing your current space to make it more comfortable. Whether you want a new bedroom or a new office space, your home is your retreat and you spend a lot of time here. Whether you section off a wall or add a new addition on your property, you can add value to your home and increase the price when you’re ready to sell.

With adding rooms, you may need to find out about the specific code restrictions in your area to have a true bedroom if you plan on reselling your home and you want to convert your attic space, so talk to a contractor and speak to your realtor.

5. Adding a New Garage Door
This is an easy project that increases the curb appeal and can add value to your home. You’ll also find that the costs are relatively low for a new steel door. On average, it may run you about $2,000 and it can be done in one-day if you’re looking for a short-term project. You will have a host of different finishes and styles, so the possibilities are endless.

Whichever project you take on, you will be able to increase the value of your home and make it more enjoyable for you and your family. So get started with your list of resolutions and visit your home improvement store to get started on these fun ideas – Your home will look fantastic!