Home Improvements

There are several different goals of remodeling. It can be done to please the home owner, or to increase the re-sale value, or a combination of both. Just as curb appeal makes the outside more attractive to those who see a home, several small interior improvements can make the inside a major selling point. But what are the things that can be done to add to the bottom line?

Let's start with the small improvements. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders to any room, but chose your colors carefully. "Repainting in neutral colors or removing outdated wallpaper will increase room appeal and mean less work when you want to sell your house," said Lisa Theits, an Accredited Staging® Professional.

Deb Grimme, a realtor with Edina Realty, agreed with Theits saying "wallpaper is out. Paint with earthy 'Pottery Barn' colors."

As far as floors go, there are a few improvement options. "If there is hardwood under the carpeting, remove the carpet," said Grimme. Actually adding new floors anywhere can create a vast improvement and is often times a do-it-yourself project. "New floors are easy to do and you can take classes at Home Depot," suggests Grimme.

There are several rooms that can be inexpensively updated that will significantly increase the re-sale value. Bathrooms are a cheap and easy room to update. "New mirrors, vanity tops, and faucets can really improve a bathroom," said Grimme. Also, new towel racks can go a long way for little cost.

Kitchens are a major selling point in any home. New paint on the cupboards and new countertops make a kitchen look fresh and clean. "Adding a ceramic tile splashboard will dress up any kitchen," said Grimme. If one wants to go a step further, replacing old appliances with stainless steal ones can make a kitchen look clean and the cost will be recouped when selling the house, according to Grimme.

If one is feeling ambitious and wanting to really put money into their home, then there are a few major projects that will increase resale value.

A finished basement is always a plus, especially with a bathroom. "Adding a bathroom increase resale value," said Grimme. When finishing a basement, consider using larger egress windows. "Larger windows increase the light in a basement and also allow access in case of an emergency," said Grimme. In addition you can classify another room as a bedroom, increasing the home's marketability.

A three season porch can be a pleasant addition to a house, but doesn't add much value. "Add a three-season porch for personal use, but not to increase the resale of your home. It doesn't increase it much," said Grimme.

For more ideas as to how to improve your home, Theits suggests watching the show "Design to Sell" on the Home and Garden channel.

A house is a huge investment, but when considering reselling, a few small internal investments can substantially increase the value and the sell-ability.

Source: Remodeling Magazine study 1997-1998

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