9 Simple Ways to Increase Your Home Value

Where do I spend money on my home to get a high return on my investment?
Big Idea: See what other people see. What do they see first?

1. The front yard, driveway, front of the house and entry door is usually what catches a person’s eye either for the good or bad. So you want to make sure there is no garbage, the shrubs are trimmed and the grass cut and trimmed. The drive way should be neat. If it is paved, it should be in good condition but if older, make sure there is no grass growing in it. The use of an edger can make the definition of the drive or gardens stand out. Make sure there is no peeling paint and no trees growing up close to the house.
2. The roof is also visible early on so it should be in good condition. Although not inexpensive, if it needs replacement and you can afford it, the house will sell more easily. If it starts to leak the costs of damage go up quickly. This may be a worthwhile purchase through a home equity loan.
3. Once inside, what is the overall appearance? It may take an outsiders view to help you. Is it dirty and/or cluttered? A dirty or cluttered house can drop the value 25% or more. If there is a smell of animals the same applies. Many people are afraid to throw things out because “someday” they may use it or it is valuable to someone. The cost of devaluing your house and the cost of storage usually exceeds the value of the items.
4. The kitchen should be spotless, everywhere. If the cabinets have dirt or grease stains on them, use a good degreaser and try cleaning. If they don’t come clean, they can be painted for under $100 and look like new.
5. If the countertop is damaged in a small area like with a knife or burn, buy a 12 or 18” ceramic tile and glue it over the location. It will look like an intended hot plate.
6. Fresh paint in any rooms goes a long way in the return on investment. Particularly if a person has stuck or nailed things all over the walls.
7. The bathroom is another area that should be spotless including the tub, toilet, sink cabinets and floor. A new toilet seat is good if old one looks that way. Tubs can be cleaned with a Mr. Clean magic eraser or DAP toilet bowl cleaner. If the stains are not cleanable, Home Depot sells a 2 part epoxy paint for about $75 that will make an old tub look new.
8. If you have any really dated things like shag carpet, paneling, blue fixtures or ugly wall paper, it would be best to replace them. Although there is some expense in this area, the payback is much more than the cost.
9. Old light fixtures should be changed out. Home Depot sells some for under $20 that look fine.

​These things will make a big difference in the value of your home.

If you like this list and find it helpful, would you do me a favor and please share with your friends? Thanks!