How to Add Home Value

Landscape the outside. Whether it's you or a prospective buyer walking up to the door, a manicured lawn and landscaped property will add value. Stepping stones, retaining walls, shrubs, and plants add character to your home. Lndscaping the outside gives your home curb appeal.

Paint the house. Painting your home is made simpler with pressure washers and power painters. These power tools make it easier to clean your outside walls, while the power painter will do the work for you. Or, you can go the old-fashioned route with a brush and roller.

Change the windows. New windows can add style to your home, but they also add another benefit--energy savings. By replacing the old windows that may be allowing outside air in and changing to more energy-efficient windows, you could save on your heating and cooling bills while updating your home's look.

Build a deck. Many families like to enjoy the outdoors, and decks can meet that demand. Decks provide an outdoor eating area that also is great for grills and barbecues. Wood decks are a common choice, but composite (man-made) materials are becoming more popular and last longer against the elements.

Remodel the bathroom. Bathrooms are vital in the home appraisal process, and it's not necessary to fully gut the bathroom. Changing light fixtures, replacing the flooring and replacing the the medicine cabinet are inexpensive updates compared to doing a full bathroom remodel.

Fix the roof. Roofs usually last approximately 20 years, so it may be time to replace yours. A new roof will add the peace of mind of having protection from the rain, snow and heat. Your choice of materials also can add value. Although asphalt roofs are often standard, roofing materials come in different choices, such as wood, slate, tile and other eco-friendly materials. Check your home improvement store for selections and prices.

Remodel the kitchen. Often, this is where the family spends the most time, and it may be in need of a face lift. Change out the refrigerator and dishwasher. Replace the sink and countertops. Change the wallpaper and flooring. Sometimes, appliance stores will give you a discount for purchasing multiple items. Tile flooring and laminate counter tops are cost effective and add a clean look with easy maintenance.