Home adornments like furniture, art and even a statement chandelier are worth the investment because they are unique to you and can give your house a distinct aesthetic.
On the other hand, items like pools and expensive appliances won’t necessarily add value to your property. Instead, go for ENERGY STAR rated appliances to save money and the environment.
1. Garage
A garage is a great way to add storage space, improve your home’s curb appeal and increase its value. It’s also a safe and secure place to store cars, bikes, tools, lawn equipment, seasonal items, and more.
It’s also a great place to create an out-of-the-way hobby studio or workshop with walls of shelving and room for your equipment. Not only does this save you from cluttering your living space, but it allows you to pursue your passion without disturbing other family members or making a mess around the house. Plus, a garage helps to protect your vehicle from the elements and vandalism.
2. Curb Appeal
Curb appeal is an important factor when it comes to selling a home. In fact, it accounts for up to 7 percent of a home’s value, according to The Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics.
You can add a lot to your curb appeal with a few simple upgrades, including a fresh coat of paint or new window shutters. You can also create a welcoming garden with plants that frame your house and are easy to maintain.
A new front door lockset, mailbox or overhead light fixtures will also make a big difference, Better Homes & Gardens reports. These updates are all low-cost and quick projects to complete.
3. Solar Panels
Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity by using photovoltaic cells. The result is a renewable energy source that reduces carbon emissions and helps homeowners save on their utility bills.
The price of solar power varies by state and region. Factors include electricity costs and peak sunlight hours. Federal and state solar incentives can help offset installation costs.
Solar panels add value to homes and may help them sell faster than those without the system. In addition, they lower energy costs and provide a financial return on investment. However, homeowners need to understand how long it takes for the panels to pay for themselves.
4. Smart Home Technology
Whether you’re an early adopter or just getting started, smart home technology is an exciting new frontier with endless possibilities for convenience and efficiency. Smart products allow you to remotely monitor or control appliances and tools like a smart thermostat, smart lights, smart TVs, and even smart security cameras.
For instance, a smart thermostat can learn your schedule and temperature preferences to avoid wasteful heating or cooling and reduce your energy bills. The same goes for smart lighting systems that can turn off or dim the lights in rooms that are unoccupied to save energy. Smart devices also can communicate with one another via a hub or smart speaker that acts as a central command.
5. Security System
Having a security system installed provides homeowners with a feeling of safety and peace of mind whether they are at home or away. It also often entitles homeowners to an insurance discount.
The core function of most systems is to deter crime by alerting the homeowner and police if a door or window has been opened. Some systems also monitor potential dangers such as fires and carbon monoxide and alert the homeowner immediately.
Many systems are now designed for the DIY crowd that do not require professional installation. They feature sensors that attach to the door and windows with velcro and adhesives, and they send an alert to the home control panel or a mobile device if they are triggered.
6. Appliances
From brewing a pot of coffee to searing lamb chops, appliances are essential in any home. High-end appliances offer a sleek look and advanced features that make the kitchen experience more enjoyable. They also tend to last longer than cheaper models. Energy efficiency ratings are another important feature to consider. Appliances with the Energy Star certification use up to 25% less energy, which may help lower your electricity bill over time.
It’s also a good idea to stock up on supplies like shelf and cabinet liners, reusable cleaning cloths and plenty of batteries for flashlights and remote controls. You never know when a light bulb or battery will go out, so it’s nice to have backups on hand.
If you are not sure where to go to look for any of these mentioned items, Cinch Home Services can provide you with all the necessary information to help you along the way!