On average, homeowners will spend between 1-4% of their home’s value each year on maintenance and repairs, which tend to increase as the house ages. Many homeowners are spending even more money on pointless upgrades and remodeling projects. Here are a few upgrades that are never worth the expense. Keep reading for the projects that will increase home value.
Three Home Upgrade Mistakes
A Built-In Home Aquarium
Why is this a permanent part of your home? Fish are cool to look at, but it’s sort of like getting a trendy tattoo. Do you really want to look at that clown fish’s goofy face forever? What’s worse is that the tank’s glass tends to fog up, and grimy filters can fill your house with the odor of rotting seaweed. Also, a giant fish tank means a giant pain to clean and maintain. Remember, fish are pets, not decor. If they’re alive, you’re going to have to look after them. When it comes time to sell your home, few things send a potential buyer running out the door faster than a massive built-in fish tank in the living room.
A Built-In Home Theater
When the newest 45-inch flat screen TV hit the market, it sounded like a great idea to have it built into your living room. No cords, no TV stand, more room for lounging – what could be better? A 70-inch flat screen TV, that’s what. Now that you have a space carved out in your living room wall for a tiny 45-incher, how are you going to upgrade to the 70-inch? And your built-in surround sound system? It’s a couple years old now, so it’s totally outdated. Technology evolves at lightning speed. If you want the latest and greatest piece of equipment, you need to be able to switch it out. That’s why a built-in home theater makes no sense.
Converting a Third Bedroom
Sure, a walk-in closet or an expanded master bath would be wonderful, but not if it comes at the expense of a third or fourth bedroom. Few buyers are looking for two-bedroom homes. If you have fewer than three, you will be at a major disadvantage when it comes time to sell. A word of advice – keep that third bedroom. If you’re not using it as a bedroom, turn it into your personal walk-in closet without disrupting the structure of your home.
Three Home Upgrades That Actually Pay Off
Trendy accessories may seem glamorous, but trends come and go. They aren’t really what buyers are looking for. Homebuyers will appreciate upgrades that mean less repair and maintenance work for them. Here are three upgrades that can actually increase home value and make selling your home a lot easier.
Seamless Gutter Installation
A seamless gutter installation is superior to traditional sectional gutters in that it will minimize the risk of leaks. The sealant on seams eventually wears away, allowing water to leak through. However, a seamless gutter installation will protect your home from water damage and reduce the need for regular repair and maintenance.
High-Quality Windows Installation
Having high-quality windows is essential to controlling the temperature of your home and maintaining its structural integrity. If you’re set on adding an upgrade that will boost the appearance of your home, high-quality windows are one of the best ways to do that. Everyone loves big, sunny bay windows in the living room or kitchen.
New Roofing Installation
Like high-quality windows, adding a strong, durable roof will protect your home from the elements. Homebuyers will be turned off by a house with an old roof that requires a lot of maintenance and repair. Replace your roof with a long-lasting one to boost your home’s value.
These may not sound as sexy as built-in surround sound, but practical home improvements like seamless gutter installation are far more likely to increase home value and pay off in the end.
