Exterior Home Renovations That Increase Home Value

Whether you’re getting your house ready to sell or if you plan on staying for decades, you can’t forget about your home’s curb appeal. Curb appeal doesn’t just keep you in love with your home. It can also increase the value of your property as much as 12%. It’s important to know which projects will give you the best return on your investment. (See “Tackle That To-Do List”)

Here is a proven list of exterior home renovations that will boost curb appeal and increase your home’s value.

Upgrade Your Front Door

The front door is one of the first things a visitor or prospective buyer will see when they visit. It’s the gateway into the house, but it also has a huge effect on your curb appeal. Replacing your front door is the perfect way to add a bold accent color to your house. A bright red door against a white house can add some excitement that can catch passing eyes.

But upgrading your door isn’t just about good looks. If your front door isn’t well insulated or if it has gaps around it, it can let in a lot of outside air. Your HVAC system will have to work overtime, and you’ll be the one paying for it.

If you live in an older home, your front door might not be as secure as a modern door. Older doors tend to be thinner, and many don’t have deadbolts. Replacing an old door with a stronger modern door can protect your home against unwanted guests, which appeals to buyers. While you’re replacing your door, consider going with a door equipped with smart technology, like remote locks and a Wi-Fi enabled camera. Smart devices are another great way to improve your home’s value.

Update your Windows

Like your front door, your windows have a huge impact on your house, both inside and outside. Old windows can let in drafts, upping your energy bills and thwarting your thermostat. But, windows also have a massive impact on your home’s exterior appeal.

Your windows are another opportunity to add an accent color to your home.

Replace Your Roof

Think your roof just keeps your house dry?

Think again.

Your roof has a massive impact on your home’s exterior aesthetic. The color and type of roof covering you use can make a huge difference to your curb appeal. It’s also one of the best exterior home renovations for adding value to your home.

According to the National Association of Realtors’ modeling impact report, adding a new roof can recover 109% of the project cost. Bring the Outdoors In

Consider turning two standard windows into an opening for beautiful French or sliding glass doors. Full-view glass doors really brighten up the space and a light and airy room is always more attractive. Also, with a view of the outdoors, the room will feel much larger. Another bonus is that modern doors are energy-efficient, cutting down on heating and cooling costs. That means more cash in your pocket now and a financial bonus should you decide to sell.

Refresh the Exterior with New Siding

The condition of your home's exterior is key to the overall curb appeal, so refresh that facade. Fresh siding will not only preserve and protect your home - the right color can make a dull home dazzling. And, it is actually one of the most cost-effective ways to improve your home's value according to Remodeling Magazine

Build a Fire Pit

During the summer months, nothing beats roasting marshmallows and sharing stories around a roaring fire. Homeowners who install an outdoor fire pit will not only create delightful memories, but will also realize a 67% return on investment - according to the National Association of Realtors®’ (NAR) and National Association of Landscape Professionals’ (NALP)  Replace Your Garage Doors

You might think your current garage doors are good enough, but upgrading them will give your give your curb appeal and home value a major boost. Add a Deck

Do you enjoy spending time outdoors? Then consider installing an attached or detached wood deck, which will give you the perfect spot for grilling, sunbathing, and entertaining. Wooden decks also a major selling point. According to Remodeling Magazine, a wood deck with stairs and railings can return almost 76%. Install a Backyard Patio Installing a patio is another project that expands and enhances your outside living area while increasing the value of your home. According to the NAR and NALP, a concrete paver patio can return around 69%. Invest in an Outdoor Kitchen

An outdoor kitchen might not be on most homebuyer’s must-have lists, but it is a feature that could seal the deal for the sale. To guarantee the best ROI keep the project simple: an inset grill, stainless steel drawers, ice chest, sink, 60 square feet of concrete counter top is plenty.

Add Outdoor Living Space

Those looking to make a major improvement should consider adding an outdoor gazebo or pergola. Homeowners are looking to use their backyard as an extension of their home for entertaining; by cooking and dining outdoors or even watching television.

Protect your Investment

For most people, their home is their single largest investment, so treat it that way. Should you refinance to lower your monthly payments or pull out some equity to pay for value-adding improvements? There are also numerous home improvement financing options that are designed to fit your needs. All construction projects involve investment but will typically provide a positive return-on-investment if planned, structured and executed correctly.