REAL ESTATE TOPICS...7 Repairs That Will Increase the Value of Your Home

While purchasing a house may mostly be about having a place to call “home,” it can also be seen as a lifetime investment. Making a few repairs—and even some cost-effective renovations—can not only skyrocket your home’s value, but can make it a more enjoyable place to live. We tapped into our network of Pro’s to uncover six of the most valuable repairs you can make for the long-term, whether or not you plan to sell in the future.

1. Fix Up the Exterior

As the saying goes, you don’t get a second chance to make a first impression, whether it’s your new neighbor or a future buyer. Repairing any broken doors, damaged screens, and those cracks in your front walk can really make a difference. You might want to consider having your siding pressure washed, your trim repainted, or your landscaping spruced up.

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2. Repair the Roof

Having a roof over your head is a moot point if that roof is in need of repair. A roofing contractor can make quick work of damaged or missing shingles, clogged gutters, and detached flashing. While you’re at it, schedule a chimney cleaning—when’s the last time you had your flue inspected and swept? (Hint: you should have this done once a year.)

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3. Address Plumbing Issues

If the roof doesn’t leak, neither should the plumbing. Hire a plumber to fix those slow drains, dripping faucets, and poorly-functioning water heater. Keep in mind that you may benefit most from installing a completely new water heater, especially if yours is 10-15 years old.

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4. Improve Interior Walls

If you’re looking to eventually sell your home, you want a potential buyer to be able to visualize living in your home. And while you might love your unique color scheme (we don’t judge), you may want to consider painting your walls a more neutral palette. Ask your painter to patch any holes and sand down the walls while they’re at it to get the best effect.

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5. Replace the Floors

Do you have scratched or buckling hardwood floors, outdated vinyl tiles from the 70s, or carpet so stained you can’t remember the original color? One of the fastest and easiest ways to reinvigorate your home is to replace the floors. With so many options today—stain-resistant carpet, wood-look vinyl flooring, and eco-friendly bamboo or cork floors—you’re sure to find a floor that you and future owners will love.

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6. Renovate the Kitchen

You might have heard it before: the kitchen sells the home. This adage is absolutely true, so if you’re looking for a larger renovation, start with the kitchen. New appliances, refaced cabinetry, and stone countertops are a few of the most popular kitchen modifications that will help increase the value of your home.

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7. Update the Bathrooms

If your bathrooms look like they belong in the 80s, it’s time for an update. You can go as low- or high-budget as you like, so talk to your contractor about where to spend your renovation budget to get the biggest impact. New fixtures and updated tile could be all it takes to bring your bathroom into the 21st century.

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