There are lots of ways to update your home and make it more appealing to buyers (it's also nice for you to enjoy!). You don't have to have a major renovation. Sometimes small, cosmetic touches give you a big-bang-for-the-buck.
Inspired by a recent article by Rory Evans in "Parade" - here are 5 ideas:
1. A new tile backsplash in the kitchen can update an outdated kitchen. There are many materials now available: ceramic, stainless steel, glass, tumbled marble to name a few. Countertops also make a big overall impact and with many of the new laminates available, it's easy to keep the cost down and have a new, updated look.
Ease Factor: Tile work is not for a beginner, but if you are handy, try a small area first. Or, hire it done.
Cost: up to $30 per square foot for tumbled marble.
2. A glass shower door in a small scale bathroom can make the room look larger than using a shower curtain. The upkeep is not that difficult if you use a squeegee or wipe it down after use.
Ease Factor: Let a professional do the installation.
Cost: About $500 for an in-frame door to more than $1,000 for a custom-cut frameless version.
3. Outdoor "rooms" have become very popular. We see this more and more in our market (Denver) where the culture is very outdoors-y to begin with. It is one of the most cost-effective ways of increasing your living space. Consider turning part of your deck or patio into an open-air kitchen. Aside from a barbecue grill and maybe a small refrigerator, the rest of the outdoor "kitchen" can be as simple as a work area made of untreated wood that you build and paint yourself. You can add an outdoor fireplace for great ambiance.
Ease Factor: For skilled homeowners, a few weekends should do the job. Be sure to get professional help for electrical, gas connections.
Cost Factor: From a few hundred dollars, for a counter area next to the grill to - the sky's the limit!
4. Lighting is an oft over-looked dimension of a room that can make a huge impact for a relatively small amount of money, especially in a small room. Adding a dimmer switch in a living or dining room sets mood and tone. Typical upgrades include dimmers, track lighting and recessed incandescent or halogen bulbs. If your budget allows, upgrading chandeliers and lighting packages throughout the home can make a BIG overall impact.
Ease Factor: Dimmer switches are relatively simple, but you'll need an electrician for recessed lighting.
Cost: From $10 for a dimmer to $100 and up for a track-lighting kit.
5. One of the biggest turn-ons for buyers is lots of storage. One of the biggest turn-offs is small, over-stuffed, cluttered closets. While spacious closets are now a standard in new homes, older homes might require an update. Customizing your closets can almost double the usable storage space. Standard systems provide creative solutions for sorting and storing - two-tiered hanging rods, shoe display racks, adjustable -height shelving and wire mesh drawers. You can enlist the services of a specialty company or go it alone with a do-it-yourself kit from a home-improvement store.
Ease Factor: Handy? The kits take about one afternoon. For a total makeover, call in the pros.
Cost: From $100 for a do-it-yourself kit to $1000 for the services of a closet company.
Source: Parade Magazine, story by Rory Evans
For "cost vs. value" information on remodeling, visit www.Pet-Friendly.com
