Find out which upgrades and improvements can increase your home’s value
Berkeley is a highly sought-after location due to its beautiful weather, parks and natural areas, tight-knit community, and cultural offerings. With a population of nearly 119,000 people, Berkeley boasts a strong real estate market, making it an ideal place for home sellers looking to boost their return on investment on their property.
If you’re thinking about selling your home in Berkeley, consider making strategic upgrades that can increase its value. Below, you’ll find tips on how to get the best return on investment for home improvement.
Remodel your bathroom
If you want to get the best return on investment for home improvement, consider remodeling your bathroom. The first step is to identify the areas that need the most attention.
Look for signs of water damage, such as peeling paint or wallpaper, warped baseboards, or mold growth. Another area to examine is the flooring. If the tiles are cracked, stained, or worn, then it may be time to replace them.
Then, consider upgrading your bathroom fixtures and fittings (e.g., faucets, showerheads, towel racks, and cabinet handles) to give it a whole new look and feel. After you update the fixtures and fittings, consider repainting your bathroom with a color that complements the new fixtures and fittings.
Improve your home’s curb appeal
Landscaping is a great way to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the exterior of your property and get the best return on investment for home improvement. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), more than 90% of realtors suggest improving your home’s curb appeal before putting your property on the market.
Start by removing any clutter, such as toys, tools, or outdoor equipment. Then, rake up leaves, pull weeds, and mow the lawn. Once you’ve decluttered, follow these steps to ensure that your yard and home’s exterior are appealing:
- Use flowers and plants to add color to your landscaping and choose colors that complement your home’s exterior.
- Trim your grass and bushes to keep them looking neat.
- Use outdoor lighting to highlight your landscaping at night.
- Choose plants and landscaping features that are easy to maintain.
Remodel your kitchen
Start by upgrading your appliances to improve the functionality and efficiency of your kitchen. Upgrading your kitchen appliances can also improve the overall look and feel of your kitchen.
Repainting your kitchen can give it a fresh look and even increase the value of your home. Plus, it can breathe new life into your home. Be sure to choose your favorite paint color and make sure it is suitable for kitchen use.
Convert your attic or basement into a bedroom
Converting attics and basements into bedrooms has become a popular trend in home improvement, offering homeowners a practical way to maximize their living space. Attics and basements are often underutilized areas, and transforming them into functional bedrooms can add significant value to a home. However, each space comes with its own set of considerations and challenges.
When converting an attic into a bedroom, careful planning is essential. Adequate insulation, ventilation, and lighting are crucial to create a comfortable and energy-efficient space. Skylights and dormer windows can bring in natural light, making the room feel more welcoming. Proper insulation will ensure that the room remains cozy in winter and cool in summer, while ventilation prevents humidity and mold issues. Staircase design is another aspect to consider, ensuring safe and easy access to the new bedroom.
Converting a basement into a bedroom offers its own set of advantages. Basements often provide a quieter and more private environment, making them suitable for bedrooms. However, moisture and potential flooding can be concerns. Proper waterproofing and adequate drainage systems are vital to prevent water damage. Additionally, ensuring sufficient egress windows for safety and natural light is crucial. Adequate ceiling height and proper lighting are other factors to address, as basements can sometimes feel dark and cramped.
In both cases, complying with local building codes and obtaining necessary permits is essential. Whether converting an attic or a basement, working with professionals such as architects, contractors, and engineers can help navigate the technical challenges and create a comfortable and appealing bedroom space.
Restructure your bathroom
A major bathroom remodel is a great way to add more space and functionality and update the look and feel of your bathroom. Plumbing and electrical work are two important aspects to consider when remodeling your bathroom.
Before you start tearing anything out, make sure you know where your plumbing lines are. You may need to move your sink, toilet, shower, or tub. If you plan on making any significant changes to your bathroom’s plumbing structure, consider hiring an experienced plumber.
You should also consult with an electrician to ensure your wiring is up to code. You may need to upgrade your electrical panel to accommodate new fixtures or appliances.
Give your kitchen a complete overhaul
A major kitchen remodel involves a complete overhaul, including layout changes, new appliances, new cabinetry, and potentially even structural changes. According to the NAR, you can get 67% of the value recovered from your kitchen renovation.
When planning the new layout of your kitchen, think about how your kitchen can be better utilized. Also, consider the kitchen’s traffic flow and storage capabilities.
It’s also important to consider the electrical and plumbing work that will be required to make your new space functional and efficient. Consider upgrading or adding electrical panels, new outlets, and lighting fixtures. You can also relocate water and drain lines to accommodate a new sink, dishwasher, or refrigerator with an ice maker.
Replace your entry door
One of the first things that potential buyers will notice when viewing a home is the entry door. That’s why it’s important to make sure that it’s in good condition and looks appealing. If your entry door is old, worn out, damaged, or simply unattractive, it can turn off potential buyers and make them think twice about making an offer on your home. By replacing your entry door, you can instantly improve the curb appeal of your home.
Entry doors come in a variety of sizes, so it’s important to measure your door frame to ensure you purchase the correct size. You should also determine which type of entry door to replace your old one with. Many types of entry doors offer different levels of security, energy efficiency, and durability.
While replacing an entry door can seem like a simple task, it’s more complicated than you might think. Consider hiring a professional installer who will install the new entry door to the highest standards.
Upgrade or install a deck, patio, and/or porch
If you have an existing deck, patio, or porch, upgrading it can make your home more visually appealing and create a welcoming first impression. Plus, a new or upgraded deck, patio, or porch can help you get the best return on investment for home improvement. According to the NAR, a new deck or patio can recoup up to 80% of its cost in added resale value.
Consult with an experienced Berkeley realtor
If you’re planning to sell your home, it can be a daunting and complicated process without the help of an experienced realtor. Luckily, Berkeley real estate agent Robert Parker is here to guide you every step of the way. Robert can help you set the right price, market your home to potential buyers, and negotiate the best possible deal, among other services. With his expertise and commitment to personalized care, Robert can help you get the best return on investment for your home improvement. Contact Robert for a consultation today and let’s turn your housing dreams into a reality together.