When deciding to renovate our homes, we want to choose the products and styles that are the most aesthetically appealing and practical. We want to renovate our homes in a way which will add value to the property, as well as create a living space that suits our needs and is comfortable. But which renovations will add value to our homes, and which should we avoid?

When considering purchasing a new home, a prospective buyer will often first notice the colours of the walls and wall designs within the house. Therefore, investing in new paint colours for the home is a crucial step toward creating a welcoming atmosphere. But which colours should we choose, and which should we avoid?

NEW PAINT - GOOD INVESTMENT

Although Benjamin Moore lists a vibrant shade of red- Caliente AF-290 - as it’s most popular colour for 2018, and though it is a visually pleasing colour, it may be best to choose softer hues when taking into consideration adding value to the home. Colours such as light blue and gray-blue, white and ivory, brown and oatmeal are pleasant colours which will enhance the beauty of the home and create a subdued atmosphere, one in which prospective home buyers can envision themselves in. Benjamin Moore offers several neutral colours, including Moonshine- number 2140-60, which is a soft grey colour, and White Opulence- number OC-69, which is an off-white shade. As far as wall designs are concerned, wallpaper could be a desirable option, if it is not too bold. Subtle textures and designs are best.

FLOORING - GOOD INVESTMENT

Along with paint colour, other aesthetic changes are crucial when adding value to the home, as homes that are visually appealing sell more quickly. Flooring, for example, is worth investing in when making home renovations. Current flooring trends include vinyl- which can be created to resemble materials such as wood and stone- and is an affordable option for home renovators. Carpet is also a desirable option, as carpet can come in a variety of textures and colours. Cork is also a popular flooring trend.

When redesigning a home, two areas to consider renovating are the kitchen and the bathroom. This is because redesigning these two areas provide the highest percentage of value recovered upon resale, at 75 to 100 %. Along with being visually appealing, these two areas should be designed practically.

KITCHEN RENOVATIONS - GOOD INVESTMENT

Popular additions to the kitchen area include a kitchen island and built-in appliances. Regarding current kitchen trends, colours such as gray, black and white are popular, as well as hardwood flooring.

Storage in the kitchen and functionality are features which are also very appealing. Colourful and unique backsplashes and sinks are also very popular. Brass fixtures are popular, and bleached wood cabinets are replacing all-white cabinets.

Popular brands of kitchen appliances include Frigidaire Professional, Jenn-Air, and KitchenAid. Regarding the look of the appliances, stainless steel and black are popular colour choices. Mixing modern-looking appliances with rustic features such as wood is a very popular trend. As far as choosing appliances is concerned, the best kind to purchase are those that are energy efficient. You can determine whether a refrigerator is energy efficient, for example, if it is ENERGY STAR certified. Energy Star certified refrigerators use approximately 10 % less energy than a typical refrigerator.

BATHROOM RENOVATION - GOOD INVESTMENT

In the bathroom area, the addition of a whirlpool tub is ideal. Other popular features include tiles- such as porcelain or ceramic- and wood features, such as a hardwood floor. And- like other areas of the home- storage in the bathroom area is ideal. Functionality is key when creating an appealing bathroom, and making the space both practical and luxurious will create an alluring space.

There are a variety of other ways in which a homeowner can add value to their home and make the space enjoyable. Some other features that have the potential to increase the value of the home are, first and foremost, proper upkeep- including the maintenance of the roof and a furnace that is in excellent condition- is an important feature. Because prospective buyers want to be assured that they are moving into a home that is safe and in good working order, investing in the overall functionality of the home is a critical step toward ensuring that the property will sell for a desirable amount.

HOME OFFICE, UPPER-LEVEL LAUNDRY, HOME THEATER, DECKS - GOOD INVESTMENTS

Some other features that are important to potential home buyers include a main floor office and laundry area, an entertainment room, such as a home theatre area - and functional outdoor space. Although landscaping is not a primary source of value for the home, additions such as a deck can increase the value of the home, with 50 % to 75 % recovered upon resale.

DATED DECOR - BAD INVESTMENT

Although there are many ways that we can increase the value of the home, there are also features which can decrease its value. These include vertical blinds, carpeted bathrooms, dirty carpeting, and general uncleanliness. Also- unless someone is willing to tackle an extensive renovation project, outdated features, such as old appliances, countertops, and flooring are unappealing. Also, old windows can be a drawback for home buyers because, if the windows are not in good condition, they may create an environment that is not as energy efficient, therefore decreasing the cost-effectiveness of the home. Updating the electric wiring and plumbing of a home are also ways to increase its value.

SWIMMING POOLS - BAD INVESTMENT

Another feature that does not appeal to home buyers is the presence or addition of a swimming pool. Although some people may find the addition of a pool appealing, depending on their personal preferences, it will not necessarily increase the value of the home, with only 10 % to 40 % recovered upon resale.

Renovating a home can be a daunting task to undertake, especially when trying to consider which features will add value to the home and which ones will not. What is clear, however, is that practicality, style, and good maintenance of the home are notable features when deciding when to save and when to splurge.

The Experts at Integrity Construction Solutions are happy to help you create your dream space! Book your FREE consultation!