Home renovations can range in scale from the simple and budget conscious to the complicated and expensive. So how can you tell which improvements and projects are worth your time and money in the long run?
According to Kristin Siebers, Realtor and Seniors Real Estate Specialist with City2Shore Gateway Group, there are a number of specific improvements that can not only help you enjoy your space more, but also get the most bang for your buck when it comes to your home's overall value and putting it on the market.
1. AN UPDATED KITCHEN
"Our kitchens have become our 'hang-out' spaces and even entertaining hubs," Siebers said. "It's where we gather with family and friends, munch on snacks and share drinks around the island, or chat while the host is cooking."
Siebers recommends focusing on modernizing cabinets, countertops, appliances, and shares that current kitchen trends include open shelving, two-tone cabinetry, quartz countertops, large islands, natural elements, bold fixtures and hardware, and hardwood and wood-look tile flooring.
2. RENOVATED BATHROOMS
"Behind kitchens, bathrooms are another great update that matters to buyers," Siebers said, advising homeowners to look at modernizing bathroom fixtures, tiles and expanding storage space. "Trends include large soaking freestanding tubs, rainfall showerheads, heated floors, natural materials—like stone, marble and wood—statement tile, floating vanities, minimalist design, black fixtures and hardware, and integrated lighting."
3. EXTERIOR CURB APPEAL
"This is a buyer's first impression, and as the saying goes, 'First impressions are everything!'" Siebers shared. "Research suggests that homebuyers decide whether they like your home or not within the first eight seconds of seeing it. Well-maintained landscaping, exterior siding, a new front door, etc. all work to make a favorable impression."
Sibers says she's seeing a number of current trends in this area:
- Bold exterior paint colors like deep blues, dark greens, charcoal grays and black.
- Mixed materials like stone veneer, wood siding, metal accents and brick.
- Simple landscaping with clean lines, ample greenery and hardscaping elements.
- A striking and welcoming entryway with decorative elements like columns or planters, and a front door with a bold color or unique design in addition to stylish door hardware.
4. ENERGY EFFICIENCY
"Reducing utility costs can make your home even more attractive to environmentally conscious buyers," Siebers explained. "Installing energy-efficient windows and doors, upgrading insulation, incorporating other renewable energy sources, etc."
5. AN EXPANDED OUTDOOR LIVING SPACE
"Extend your living and entertaining areas beyond the interior of the home to increase the overall living area," Siebers said, noting this is often done by designing expansive decks, patios with integrated seating, fire features, pergolas and outdoor kitchens.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS
Obviously, it's your home—do as you please! But Siebers notes a few improvements that might not have the same return on investment as the previously mentioned suggestions, including over-personalized or short-trended upgrades, DIY projects done with poor-quality materials or workmanship, and improving your home beyond the norms of the neighborhood you live in.
If you're on a budget and major home renovations aren't in the cards at the moment—or you're not planning to be in your home longer than two years—there are still steps you can take to add value, such as decluttering, deodorizing, deep cleaning, adding a fresh coat of paint, updating lighting fixtures and addressing any minor repairs that buyers will surely notice.
"Empty your closets and storage by 50%," Siebers recommended. "Buyers need to see how much space they'll have. If closets are full, they'll think there's no space for their things!"
Because certain improvements will bring a greater return and higher home sale price depending on the market, trends, and your local area, Siebers recommends consulting a trusted real estate advisor, who can in turn offer insight on timing and other factors that determine whether certain improvements are worth making.
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for West Michigan Woman.
This article originally appeared in the Aug/Sep '24 issue of West Michigan Woman.
