How To: Improve The Value Of Your Home!

We all have the ability to improve our home’s value even with the ever changing real estate market. Simple well thought out home improvements will pay off years later with a little planning.
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Things that affect your home’s value:

• ​Spaces  and features that have not been updated in some time need attention. Retro is only fun and adds character in small bits and pieces. Along with cosmetic upgrades such as updating vanities, old linoleum, tile, and counter tops, take a look at things like older water heaters, siding, and windows. These items will  reduce the value of your home because they lack the energy saving features of newer products. Take a good look around and see what areas appear dated or need upgrading.
• Poorly constructed home improvements are worse than doing no improvements at all because the costs to rip them out and replace them is generally more than doing them correctly in the first place. Keep an eye on any area of your home that does not appear to be correctly installed and make a plan to correct that area.
• Lack of maintenance reduces the lifespan of the features of your home and causes them to be valued less when it is appraised. Keep a list of seasonal to do maintenance items and keep up with it. Small investments now can pay off big in the long run.
• Lack of curb appeal is a killer for homes that are for sale. Attracting good buyers starts with a pretty exterior for drive by buyers and online browsing buyers. Stand at the end of your driveway and take a critical look for anything that detracts from your home's full potential. 

Weekend DIY Projects: Some inexpensive ideas to add value to your home now!
- Add some mulch
- Tend to your plants, shrubs, and trees
- Refresh your paint where you see peeling or chipping
- Clear the clutter from the yard and garage

​Home Improvements worth paying for in 2018:
- Manufactured Stone Veneer
- Garage Door Replacements 
- Entry Door Replacements (steel) 
- Deck Addition (wood) 

Read about the 2018 Cost VS. Value report from Remodeling Magazine: www.billpearnmasonry.com/blog/home-improvements-2018-cost-vs-value-report