6 Most Valuable Home Projects

There are many benefits to periodic home updates. They help fix small issues that can turn into major repairs. They help rejuvenate your home and keep it from feeling stuffy and dated. Furthermore, under the right circumstances, they can add to your home's value, which can benefit you if you plan to sell it in the future, whether near or distant. Here are some of the top home projects to consider.

1. Basic Updates

When considering home projects, it may be a good idea to start small and work your way up. Addressing what you need to take care of first makes it easier to start on the projects you want. You may not need emergency plumbing service in the future if you fix any leaks now. You can protect your home from fires by replacing the electric wiring when needed. It is impractical to start a large project until these small but necessary ones have been taken care of.

2. Master Bedroom Updates

The bedroom is one of the most personal rooms in the house, so any updates you make should reflect your taste and comfort. Hardwood floors are both a versatile and a popular update that can make the room more cozy or more elegant. If you would like to add a touch of glamour to your bedroom, add a tasteful chandelier in place of your old overhead light fixture. However, do not go overboard by choosing a chandelier that's too large for the room. Not only is that impractical, but it just looks tacky.

3. Replacement Windows

Replacement windows prevent the leakage of air between the inside and outside. Not only does this make your home more comfortable, it also helps to reduce your energy bills. New windows can therefore do wonders for your home value. Most homeowners recoup almost 90% of the replacement costs.

However, the value of your replacement windows depends somewhat on where you live. You may recoup only 62% of your initial investment in replacement windows in a hot climate. However, you may be able to improve that figure by choosing low-e glass that reflects heat away from your home.

4. Basement Remodel

Many people do not take full advantage of the potential offered by a basement remodel. The basement is a versatile space that can be put to many valuable uses: a children's playroom, a home theater, a wet bar, a game room. The possibilities are limited only by your imagination and your remodeling budget. You can save some money on your basement remodel because people do not necessarily expect high-end finishes. Basement remodels are similar to replacement windows in that you can recoup approximately 90% of your initial investment. This is less dependent on the climate where you live in the case of basement renovation.

5. Deck or Patio

Indoor-outdoor living is increasingly popular, so an investment in a patio, deck, or porch addition can see a large return. You can use wooden trellis and/or bold plantings to hide unattractive fixtures of your yard, such as an outdoor air conditioning unit, and draw attention to features that you do want to emphasize. Consider safety and comfort with sturdy porch railings and sufficient protection from the sun.

6. Major Bathroom Remodel

A major bathroom remodel may involve expanding the space to the extent possible, putting fresh tile on the floor, installing a new vanity or a countertop with double sinks, and adding a linen closet. A major bathroom remodel can yield a return on investment of 93.2%. However, if you're thinking of selling soon, you might want to do some market research before deciding on updates. For example, if potential buyers are likely to be older, a walk-in shower may be a better investment than a soaking tub.

Your home is one of your biggest assets. A thought-out and well executed home project can both increase your equity and improve your quality of life.