For most people, buying a home is the single largest investment they’ll ever make. If you’re planning to sell your home in the future, then it’s in your best interest to increase its value as much as possible while you own it—whether through simple cleaning and maintenance or more involved remodeling projects.
Many homeowners try to increase their property value by making the inside of their house as attractive as possible. However, if you’re trying to increase your property value, you need to think about your house’s exterior, too. Believe it or not, the outside of your home affects the interior and can make all the difference in how much you’re able to sell it for. You can make sorts of small changes that will add to significant improvements in your property value when it comes time to sell. Here are some of them.
Use Rich Colors
Vibrant paint colors have a way of making rooms feel much more spacious. Some instances have proved that intense or brighter shades make your place appear bigger. That’s why you may want to opt for deeper hues on your next paint job or at least splurge on a bold area rug and some colorful art for an instant lift. Start with something small—and see how a little color goes a long way in creating visual interest.
Get Rid of Curtains
Curtains don’t just get in your way; they can also lower your property value. Some buyers see them as a sign of laziness or disinterest. Instead of curtains and drapes, opt for blinds that you can control yourself so that no one gets in your way. Plus, it’ll help with privacy.
If you choose to decorate your windows with frames, go for small-sized ones—something like 36×36 inches or smaller is ideal because anything larger looks out of place on small-sized homes. Additionally, try not to have windows right next to each other; homes where one window is right next to another often look smaller than homes where there are more separate windows.
Change Window Treatments
Consider changing your window treatments if you’re looking for a relatively low-cost way to improve your property value. In some instances, simply swapping old curtains for updated ones could be enough; in other cases, you may want to upgrade from drapes to blinds. Either way, these projects don’t take a lot of time or money and can significantly impact how buyers perceive your home. If you’re concerned about the potential resale value of your home, updating your window treatments can help turn a no into a yes when it comes time for open houses and showings.
Use Creative Artwork
Homeowners often consider buying artwork and sculptures when they’re looking to refresh a room or two in their home. It’s an added touch that can spice up a bland space and give it personality. But don’t just choose any piece of art you like—investing in something your eye will love can make your home appear much more valuable on real estate websites and make it more appealing to potential buyers down the road.
Add Drapes
All real estate experts will tell you that adding a home theater or professional kitchen will increase your property value. But most of them neglect to mention that updating your drapes can do just as much good—if not more. A new pair of curtains, made from high-quality fabric, can breathe new life into an old house and make it look brand new. It’s quick, easy, and cheap: visit a few stores and see what beautiful fabrics they have in stock today.
Invest in Landscaping
There’s nothing more pleasing than surrounding yourself with lush greenery. And there’s no better way to increase your property value than by doing just that. Plants and vegetation naturally accentuate a home’s features and create an atmosphere of welcome—putting you one step closer to boosting your real estate value.
Professional landscaping is a good investment, regardless of how your home is trending in your neighborhood. Whether you’re just moving into a new home or have lived there for years, landscaping can dramatically improve curb appeal and add value. Of course, there are some rules: Before you get started with your backyard redesign, make sure you talk to an expert—the right plants and placement can save water and reduce maintenance costs.
Improving your property value isn’t as difficult as you might think. You just need to take a step back and analyze how potential buyers perceive your home. If you want to increase your property value, then make sure that your lawn is always well-manicured, that no weeds are growing in your front garden and that any repairs have been attended to promptly. Remember, potential buyers like clean, neat homes with minimal maintenance required.
