(StatePoint) Putting dollars into a home remodeling project should be done with care. After all, your decisions could affect your home’s value if you sell it in the future.
Here are three upgrades to consider.
Attic Insulation
For an affordable home project with a superb return on investment, start at the very top of your home and insulate your attic with fiberglass. This upgrade offers a 116 percent return on investment, according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2016 Cost vs. Value Report.
Not only will you see money on the table when you sell your home, this is one job that will prove to reduce energy bills now while improving home comfort.
Fireplace
Make your home a hot property. New homebuyers ranked fireplaces as the number one most desired decorative appearance product in a new home, according to a National Association of Home Builders survey.
“A fireplace can give you the competitive advantage you need to sell your home faster and at a higher value,” says Andy Tesch, brand director for Heat & Glo, an industry-leading fireplace manufacturer.
Options abound to make a fireplace a possibility in any room of the house — including kitchens and bathrooms, or even outdoors. And there’s a fireplace to fit your style and needs, whether you’re going for a contemporary look, want authentic masonry styling with the functionality of gas, like the TRUE series from Heat & Glo, or need a focal point for your outdoor space. You can even upgrade your wood-burning fireplace with an efficient gas insert. Whatever you choose, a fireplace gives your home a “wow” factor.
For free design resources and help selecting the right fireplace for your home, visit HeatnGlo.com.
New Deck
To improve home value significantly and take better advantage of every square inch of your property, extend your living space outdoors.
A deck is a dramatic addition that makes a statement. For a sound return on your investment, build with wood. Wood offers a 75 percent return, as opposed to composite material, which only offers a 64 percent return, according to the same Remodeling Magazine Report.
While there are some maintenance costs associated with deck upkeep — staining, pressure washing and furnishing — doing it yourself can make this a worthwhile upgrade.
Be an informed homeowner. Put your money where it counts with smart home upgrades that improve your comfort today and attract buyers tomorrow.
