6 Home Improvements That Are Worth the Money

Moreover, improvements that add value in a reasonable cost-to-benefit ratio are the most valuable for your home. But increasing value should be a bonus, not the main goal. Always choose improvements that will bring more joy and happiness to you and your family.

Also, before starting to renovate your living space, check local building codes and regulations for maximum safety and compliance with requirements. If you're unsure where to spend money when updating your home, here is a list of areas to focus on:

1. Flooring

Replacing carpets is usually what comes to homeowners' minds when they want a new look for their floors. But this often only hides defects underneath. If that's the case with your floor, it's best to fix the defects first.

You can replace your current flooring with wooden or plywood. If you don't have a budget for wood floors, replacing carpets is also a good option. However, make sure defects such as cracks that can spread and affect floor strength are fixed first.

You can also consider epoxy flooring. Epoxy floors are not only visually appealing and durable, but they're also eco-friendly and require minimal maintenance.

2. Air Conditioning System

A central air conditioning system costs between $5,000 and $10,000 but can increase your home's value by 10-20%. If you're planning to improve ventilation, consider installing an HVAC system. It will help you save significantly on electricity bills while maintaining comfort in your home, especially during winter and summer. If you're still unsure, check your bills and old equipment. An outdated HVAC system often consumes more energy than expected.

If you need extra help, call your HVAC specialist and install a new system as soon as possible.

3. Painting

Fresh paint can instantly change your home's appearance for a small cost. That is why most homeowners always choose this option. Moreover, it is the simplest renovation you can do yourself. You can hire a professional for $3,000 to $6,000 for an average American home. Or do it with your family for fun and enjoyment. But if you plan to sell your home, it's better to hire a professional painter.

4. Bathrooms

According to experts, bathroom renovations provide a steady return on investment of about 50-60%. A typical update includes flooring and tile, countertops, plumbing fixtures, and furniture. Today, most homeowners prefer open and more accessible bathrooms. This includes wider walkways, lower light switches, shower stalls, and grab bars.

You can also consider painting old cabinets instead of replacing them, cleaning tile grout, or coating tubs and toilets instead of installing new ones. This will save you a lot of money while increasing your home's value.

5. Well-Maintained Yard

A cluttered garden full of weeds and disorganized plants is a serious turn-off. Remove all dead plants and trim overgrown greenery. Also, consider adding trees to your garden. They can prevent erosion, filter water from pollutants, and keep the air fresh and clean. Tree-lined gardens can also attract potential buyers.

Professional landscaping costs range from $500 to $3,000. If you want to remove large trees, the cost will be higher. But if you don't have a budget for professional help, start taking care of your garden on your own.

6. Kitchen

If the front yard is what people first see, then the kitchen is what most expect. It's the most valuable area to renovate, offering a return of up to 75% of costs. Just don't overload the kitchen with decor, as this can become a nightmare for others.

You can also use high-quality elements such as stainless steel appliances and granite countertops. If you're not planning to replace appliances, coat them with electrostatic paint for a metallic effect.

It's also worth investing in additional storage in the kitchen. A well-organized storage space will make your kitchen more convenient and functional.

Final Touches

Home transformations inspire and excite, but don't get carried away. Before you start, ensure that the renovation meets your family's needs. Prioritizing core needs will help you avoid unnecessary expenses on changes your family doesn't need, and also save money for other interesting family activities.

Finally, don't forget about other areas that may need additional repair, such as the roof. You wouldn't want your fully renovated kitchen to be flooded by rain, would you? Therefore, plan everything in advance and make sure it fits your budget.