7 Ways To Improve Your Home

Whether you want to increase your home's resale value or are just looking for ways to spruce it up for your own enjoyment, there are a variety of improvements you can make. The best options for you depend on your budget and your needs.

1. Put in a Pool

An inground pool can add beauty and interest to your backyard. It can also be a fun place to gather with friends and family. It gives the kids something to do in the summer and is also a good way to get some exercise. There are lots of different options and the cost of inground pool may not be as much as you think. For the maximum value, choose a pool that is both functional and enhances the aesthetic appeal of your property.

2. Add Square Footage

Adding more usable space can both make your home more attractive to buyers and make your home more functional for you. Whether you need some extra room for storage or a place for guests to sleep, adding an extra room could be just the thing. If your goal is maximizing your potential selling price, consider adding popular features, such as an extra bathroom or mother-in-law suite, that will set your property apart from the competition.

3. Make Your Home More Efficient

Improving the efficiency of your home can be a big project, but it doesn't have to be. Even small improvements, such as installing a smart thermostat can pay off. Smart thermostats allow you to control the temperature of your home from anywhere. So, if you forget to lower the thermostat before you go on vacation or head off to work, you can make adjustments. You can also set it up to automatically make adjustments to save energy while you are sleeping or not at home. Other potential efficiency improvements include installing energy-efficient home appliances, replacing leaky windows and adding insulation.

4. Improve Your Curb Appeal

Curb appeal plays a big role in getting your home sold. Studies show it could impact the value of your home by as much as seven percent. Improving the aesthetic appeal of your landscape is a good place to start. You could also consider adding an outdoor kitchen or a new patio. Sprucing up or replacing your garage door can also make a big difference.

5. Update Your Kitchen

The kitchen is one of the most used rooms in your home and is also the focal point for many buyers. If yours hasn't been updated in a while, now might be a good time to give it a more modern look. Consider replacing outdated appliances with newer models. Change out the cabinets. Redo the countertops. Put down some new flooring. Install a new sink. Add or change out your dishwasher. 

6. Clean and Declutter

Giving your house a good deep cleaning and getting rid of clutter can refresh the look of your home and make it more comfortable and functional. Start by going through closets and cabinets and separating the contents into keep, throw out, sell and donate piles. Next, clean out drawers and storage areas. Don't hang on to items that you haven't used in years. If you haven't needed them by now, you probably aren't going to need them.

7. Paint

Painting the interior or exterior of your home can dramatically change the appearance of your home without spending a huge amount of money. Start by painting any rooms with strange or outdated color schemes. Prioritize areas where the existing paint is faded or chipped. If painting the exterior of your home seems like a huge task, consider installing new siding that doesn't need to be painted.

If your home needs a refresh, these improvements can make a big difference. Whether your want to take on a major project or just make a few minor upgrades, there are options that will work with the time and budget you have.