It can be tough to know where to start when it comes to home improvement projects. However, a few key updates can make a big difference in your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and resale value. Here are five of the most important home updates to be investing in this year.
1. Upgrade Your Insulation
Upgrading your insulation is one of the most important home updates you can make. Not only will it make your home more comfortable, but it will also save you money on your energy bills. There are various insulation options available, including fiberglass, cellulose, and spray foam. Talk to a professional to find out which option is best for your home.
In addition to upgrading your insulation, you should also make sure that your home is properly sealed. This includes sealing any cracks or gaps around doors and windows. You can also seal ductwork and plumbing penetrations. Sealing your home will help prevent heat loss and improve your home’s energy efficiency.
If you live in an older home, you may also want to consider upgrading your windows. Older windows are often drafty and inefficient. Replacing them with new, energy-efficient windows can make a big difference in your home’s comfort and energy bills.
2. Landscape Your Yard
Another great way to improve your home’s curb appeal and resale value are to invest in landscaping. This can include adding new plants, trees, and shrubs to your yard. You can also install a new lawn or install a water feature. Landscaping not only makes your home more attractive, but it can also help to improve your home’s value by up to 15%!
If you’re unsure where to start, consider hiring a professional landscape designer. They can help you create a plan that fits your budget and your home’s needs. Once you’ve landscaped your yard, be sure to maintain it. This includes watering your plants, mowing the lawn, and trimming hedges and shrubs. By taking care of your landscaping, you can ensure that it will continue to look its best for years to come.
3. Check and Upgrade Your Plumbing
According to the Statistics Database, one in ten American homes has plumbing leaks. These leaks can waste a lot of water and money. In addition, they can also cause damage to your home. To avoid these problems, it’s important to have your plumbing checked regularly. This is especially true if you live in an older home with outdated plumbing.
You should also consider upgrading your plumbing if it is outdated. This can include replacing old pipes with new ones or installing a new water heater. These upgrades can help to improve your home’s comfort and efficiency.
If you’re not sure whether or not your plumbing needs to be updated, consider hiring a professional plumber to take a look. They will be able to assess your plumbing and make recommendations for any updates that need to be made.
4. Renovate Your Outdoor Spaces
Another great way to improve your home’s value is to renovate your outdoor spaces. According to a 2016 Landscaping and Garden Trends Study conducted by Houzz, approximately 50% of homeowners who improve their outside spaces spend six hours or more there each week.
There are a variety of ways you can renovate your outdoor spaces. This can include adding new patio furniture, planting a garden, or installing an outdoor kitchen. You can also add lighting or fire pits. By renovating your outdoor spaces, you can create a space that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.
5. Add a New Coat of Paint
One of the quickest and easiest ways to update your home is to add a new coat of paint. This can be done inside or outside of your home. A fresh coat of paint can give any space a new look. It’s also a great way to protect your home from weather damage. If you plan on selling your home in the future, choosing a neutral paint color is always a safe bet. However, if you’re not planning on selling anytime soon, feel free to choose any color that you like.
Any one of these five home improvement projects is a great way to increase your home’s value. However, if you’re looking for the best return on your investment, consider doing all of them.
