Owning a home comes with maintenance, projects and sometimes you just want to do some upgrades or refreshing. However, it can be hard to know which home projects give you the best return on your investment, especially if you're planning on selling in the near future. According to Real Simple, there are 5 low budget home projects that give you the most bang for your buck and 2 projects you should definitely avoid.
Projects that Boost Your Home's Value:
Painting Your Front Door: Hello curb appeal!
Re-Grout Tile: Re-grouting can be a great way to update tile surfaces without actually replacing the tile and is way more cost effective. You can even change the grout color to go for a more updated and modern look!
Re-Caulk Bathtubs and Sinks: This not only prevents leaks, but helps your bathrooms look fresh and clean!
Professionally Clean (or Replace) Carpets: Clean carpets make a huge positive impression on potential buyers, while dirty, stained carpets can be a major turn off.
Landscape Your Front Yard: Besides improving curb appeal, a landscaped front yard can have an improvement on your home's overall value. Plus, what new homeowner wants to add landscaping to their already long to-do list?
Projects to Avoid:
Finishing an Unfinished Space (Like a Basement): This is especially true if you're planning on selling your home soon, as research shows you only recoup about 50 cents on the dollar for these types of improvements. Not to mention, it can be very costly and time consuming.
Installing Smart Home Amenities: Zillow research has found installing these features don't have an impact on sales price. If you plan to install them for your use and convenience, it may be worth it, but installing them just for resale likely won't get you a return on your investment.
Source:
"https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/home-improvement/projects-to-increase-home-value," Real Simple.