Remodeling: A dozen ideas to enhance the value of your home

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Remodeling: A Dozen Ideas to Enhance the Value of Your Home
Unless you’re a stock market genius, your home is probably your biggest asset. Real estate has become a rockier road than it was a year ago, but that doesn’t mean you should stop thinking about those home improvement projects. Remodeling can be both exciting and profitable if you know which remodels add the most value to your house. Take a look at the following twelve projects which can change the feel of your home while also adding real value:
1. Minor kitchen remodel - Both men and women seem to find a bright and shiny kitchen the most appealing part of the house. The surprising news is that a minor kitchen re-do is a better deal than a complete kitchen make-over. So, if you’re feeling up to it, go ahead and get that new fridge, paint the kitchen walls and change the drawer pulls – you’re going to get the most bang for your buck by updating your kitchen first.2. Bathroom addition - Having an extra bathroom makes a house extremely attractive to larger families. Just imagine - no more fighting over bathroom time on weekday mornings.3. Major kitchen remodel - Now we’re talking about the expensive projects that probably require a professional such as updating cabinets, re-tiling and adding a granite countertop. You might also consider getting new appliances.4. Family room addition - The beauty of adding a family room is the flexibility of eventually using it for whatever best fits your needs: an extra bedroom, an office, a home theater or even a game room. Potential buyers are attracted to concepts that allow them to adjust to their families’ needs.5. Second-story addition - This remodel shares many benefits with a family room addition and even adds the same equity to your home. But, it has one special advantage: it can serve as a mother-in-law suite or a room for a teenager who suddenly needs her own space.6. Attic bedroom - Close in value to the family room and second-story additions, this project is designed exclusively as an extra bedroom but should be less expensive than building a new level or extension to the house. Since the attic already exits, this project becomes more of a redecorating proposition with maybe some attention to heating / cooling needs.7. Master suite - The complete bedroom suite for both married couples and singles is a hallmark of luxury for most Americans. Couples with children particularly love the privacy that comes with having bedroom, bath, walk-in closet and dressing area all connected and separate from the rest of the house.8. Bathroom remodel - An upgraded bathroom with new tile, tub, vanity, toilet and lighting is an extremely attractive item to potential buyers. Who doesn’t love an updated, clean bathroom?9. Siding replacement - While your family might not notice this upgrade on a daily basis, this remodel option is of huge importance when you’re ready to put your house on the market. Buyers usually won't get to the good stuff inside if your “curb appeal” doesn’t grab them.10. Deck addition - A well designed deck not only adds to the beauty of a home, but when properly displayed, also makes your home seem much larger and roomier. With the increasing popularity of outdoor living spaces, this would make a great selling point.11. Window replacement - Few things detract from the appearance of a house more than old, shabby windows. Not only do new windows add beauty, they also provide improved insulation and energy savings – an item high on most homeowner and potential buyer lists these days.12. Home office - With many people working from home these days, a home office is a great addition to a home. It’s space that you can use for professional or personal use that is separate from the rest of the house and can be a kids-free zone. It might be an upgrade that requires the least work and expense and also likely recaptures what now might be wasted space.
Are you considering a home remodel project? Keep in mind that any upgrades to your home might change the scope of your homeowners policy. Let NetQuote help you instantly connect with quality, local agents in your area who can help you make sure your policy reflects your current home – and, help save you money!