Home Upgrades To Avoid and Ones That Are Worth It

By Zak Himmelberger

Zak has been serving the many families he's worked with as a trusted Realtor since 2013. As a native Phoenician, he knows the ins-and-outs of the market like no one else.

How do I get the most bang for my buck when it comes to home improvements? This is a crucial consideration as not all improvements will significantly enhance your home’s value. Today, I’ll go over what projects to avoid, what repairs to make, and how to select a good contractor to do the work.

1. Upgrades to avoid. While upgrading is a great way to build on your home’s existing value, there are plenty of upgrades that aren’t worth your time or trouble. Upgrading your kitchen to top-of-the-line or professional grade, or making lavish landscaping changes aren’t very cost-effective. You also want to avoid partial upgrades at any cost. While finished projects may net you at least something in return, a half-done project might actually hurt your final sales price. When you embark on a project, make sure to see it through to completion. Don’t rip out the cabinets in your kitchen, tear up the tile in your bathroom, or pull up the carpet in the living room unless you plan to finish the job.

2.Recommended home upgrades. Adding to your home’s value, however, isn’t impossible. You’ve just got to pick the right projects to pursue. Consider replacing your garage door with something newer and fresher. While you’re at it, manufactured stone veneer is a great touch to the exterior of the home. Improvements that catch the eye and make a good first impression are almost always worth looking into. While you don’t want to go too in-depth, making sure that the landscaping is clean and nice is a great first step. Inside, look for mid-range remodels to the kitchen and touch ups like fresh carpeting and paint. Don’t break the bank, but make sure things are up-to-date and functional.

3. Now for the contractor. One of the most critical considerations for any home improvement project is the contractor that you choose to perform the work. The right contractor will help you control costs, suggest high-quality additions that fit your budget, and get the details right the first time. In order to find the right contractor, start by asking around to your friends, family, and even things like a neighborhood Facebook group. Generate a list of the top candidates and interview each of them to find the best fit. Don’t just review their proposals, however. You also want to ask for examples of their finished work and any licenses or certifications that they possess.

These improvements not only make your home more attractive to potential buyers but also have a track record of providing a solid return on investment. As you consider preparing your home for sale, think about the impact of each improvement on your home’s appeal and value. Remember, strategic investments in your home can make a significant difference in its sale price.

Ready to take the next step in maximizing your home’s value? As with anything related to real estate, the answers could change based on your location and comparable sales. I’m here to help. Contact me by phone or email for more personalized suggestions and any questions you might have. Let’s work together to get the best possible price for your home!