Raise home property value with projects known to improve home operations and curb appeal while giving you the best return. Renovations emphasizing modern aesthetic and functionality attract the widest number of homebuyers, making each addition a wise investment. Remember, it takes money to make money – explore the five following home additions guaranteed to stop neighbors and passersby in their tracks.
Complete Kitchen Remodel
Don’t settle for splashing paint on the walls and replacing cabinetry hardware. Comprehensive kitchen remodels remain the most profitable home additions, resulting in returns over 90%*.
First, contract functional replacements. New appliance installations include:
- (1) French door refrigerator
- (1) Electric range w/vent
- (1) Commercial-grade trash compactor
- (1) Built-in microwave
Aesthetic considerations include stained – not painted – cabinetry, sliding storage, wood flooring, accented molding and a ceramic backsplash on top of warm, inviting paint. Recessed ceiling and under-cabinet lights emphasize these features without attracting attention. Every enhancement welcomes the family to a hot, home-cooked meal.
Freestanding Garage
Does your property have an attached garage? If not, build a freestanding garage. This, often ignored, home addition provides extra workspace and easy, in-and-out protection for guest and family vehicles. Mid-range additions yield up to a 69% return.
Complement your home with the perfect freestanding garage design. Considerations include: roof pitch, roofing material, siding material, interior/exterior light fixtures and overhead doors. Refer to contractor expertise for all product use and specifications.
Backyard Deck
Tack on a backyard deck, perfect for outdoor barbecues, tanning and all-around R&R. Pressure-treated wood additions can rake in over an 85% return, while composite choices still offer a healthy 77%.
Although deck additions remain comparably simple projects, there’s considerable room for creativity. Slats may be oriented horizontally, vertically or diagonally to your home and/or change orientation based on the inclusion of built-in flower boxes, stairs, etc. Confirm all materials and add-on stair stringers or railings with your contractor.
Master Bath Addition
Additional master baths raise property value exponentially. Professional contractors know the perfect combination of fixtures and square footage (sq ft) can secure a hearty return over 65%.
Upscale renovations, up to 100 sq ft, allow for walk-in glass shower enclosures, enhancing natural or artificial light while appearing superbly elegant. Whether you plan to sell shortly after renovation or not, this one home addition remains considerably profitable as the sanctuary you always wanted.
Consider the following features/fixtures: accented ceramic tiles, accented molding, insulated window units, (1) whirlpool tub enclosure, (1) double sink vanity, folding tri-view medicine cabinets and (1) dual-flush, water-efficient toilet. After project completion, start the next renovation!
Attic Bedroom Conversion
Attic bedroom conversions continue to appeal to large families or socially apt couples, who prefer extra guest space. As a result, returns can yield up to a 92% return.
Work closely with your contractor to ensure all operational conversions are made. These include HVAC extension, ceiling and wall installation replacement, electric outlet installation, etc. After, fill the space with carpeting, a standing closet and more.
*All estimated returns from http://www.zillow.com/howto/ValueOfHomeImprovements.htm