For most Filipinos, home ownership is not just a sign of having “made it” but it’s also a physical manifestation of years of hard work. Investing in home improvement projects is, therefore, not just a way to increase the projected selling value of a property but also the intrinsic value it has for homeowners. Since not all home improvements will boost both a home’s selling price and its livability for the current homeowner, it’s important to focus on projects that strike a balance between practicality and personal appeal.
Below are ten home improvements that should do just that:
Spruced Up Bedrooms
Bedrooms are where most people spend the bulk of their time at home. Given that, it makes sense to spend a bit more on your bedroom furniture as well as on the fixtures that matter for this space. Windows should have hardware for blinds and curtains and they should also be upgraded to sliding, casement, or other window types that can open wide but still be sealed tightly to block out outside noise and help keep air-conditioned air in. If needed, the fixtures and the electrical outlets for the air-conditioner should also be redone to give the room a neater appearance.
Remodeled Kitchen
Unlike in other frequently used rooms like bedrooms, the layout and fixtures of a kitchen can significantly influence the safety and usability of the space. Work with a qualified interior designer— preferably someone who also cooks—to remodel your kitchen into a space that’s a joy to work in.
Focus on optimizing the sink and faucet layouts, countertops, ventilation, tiles, lighting, and having enough space and electrical outlets to accommodate frequently used appliances. If the space also doubles as a dining area or laundry room, make sure that these functions do not interfere with the main function of the kitchen.
Updated Bathroom
A renovated bathroom with updated fixtures, fresh tiling, and modern lighting can create a sense of luxury on a relatively modest budget. While you can go all the way with luxury fixtures, there are now plenty of affordable options for sprucing up your bathroom that won’t necessarily break the bank.
At the very least, make sure that the shower area has non-slip tiles and that the toilet can flush properly. Nice-to-haves include extra-large mirrors, ample cabinets for storing bath towels and toiletries, mood lighting, properly-installed safety outlets on the countertop, a nice faucet that properly clears the sink, and a new bidet.
Improved Storage Areas
Potential buyers appreciate homes with ample storage space, so investing in your storage areas can pay off. If you do have storage rooms, make sure to include ample shelving, storage supplies, lighting, and ventilation to impress would-be buyers.
However, if you have a garage, it’s generally a bad idea to convert the whole thing into a dedicated storage area. Many home buyers prefer to have a dedicated garage, and you may find that you need the extra space for a car, in the future. If you do want to convert your garage into a storage room, make sure that you can still easily revert it to its original function.
Updated Electrical System
An outdated electrical system can pose safety risks and can be a major turnoff for potential buyers. Upgrading the electrical system by adding more outlets and ensuring that it can accommodate modern technology can make your home safer and much more convenient to live in while also giving it a serious competitive edge in the real estate market.
Repainted Walls
A fresh coat of paint works wonders in transforming the look and feel of a home. If you’re serious about selling your home, opt for less-trendy neutral colors that appeal to a broader range of potential buyers.
Power-Washed Exteriors
Curb appeal matters, and nothing freshens up the exterior of a home quite like a thorough power wash. Use a pressure washer to clean the siding, decks, walkways, and driveways and instantly revive the appearance of your home.
Tidy Landscaping
To maintain your property’s value you should, at least, try to trim overgrown bushes and tree branches that are edging into your neighbor’s property. Additionally, avoid leaving junk cars, DIY projects, and junk out where people can see them. Lastly, you can plant colorful flowers, and ensure that your lawn is watered and mowed every 7 to 10 days. Doing these basic landscaping tasks should result in a visually appealing exterior that can make your home stand out among other properties on the market.
Fresh Molding
Crown molding, baseboards, and trim can take a beating in the humid Philippine climate. Adding or refreshing these fixtures can give interior rooms a more elegant appearance that improves the look, feel, and overall value of your home. Removing molding also provides opportunities to plug any hidden gaps that mice and other pests could use to enter your home.
New Doormat
While it might be the smallest project on this list, a new doormat can make a surprisingly significant impact. A clean and attractive doormat welcomes guests and potential buyers alike. It’s a simple touch that sets a positive tone as soon as someone enters your home.
Focusing on the areas above should increase your home’s value without cleaning out your savings. But while these suggestions should raise your home’s market value, at the end of the day, your home is still your home. If you intend to live in the house you’re improving, your remodeling choices should be fully focused on creating a space that makes you happy.
Image by pressfoto on Freepik
Jellybeans in the City 