Many factors go into determining your home’s value, but there are some easy steps to take that will help it increase! Whether you’re looking for a higher value to sell or want to maximize equity for future improvements, increasing the value of your space is never a bad idea. 1. Declutter / Create Functional Space
Cleaning and thoroughly decluttering a space makes it feel larger and more functional, while allowing the appraiser to better see the finishes of each room and assess the “quality of construction.” 2. Increase Energy Efficiency Lower utility bills are attractive to any homeowner, and energy solutions are often simple! Installing energy efficient appliances when replacing old models (especially when replacing furnace and ac units), swapping out incandescent bulbs for LEDs, applying caulk/weatherstripping around drafty windows and doors or installing a smart thermostat are all great areas to begin. In CT, Eversource offers energy efficiency assessments but the cost and availability does vary depending on your location. 3. Fresh Paint A fresh coat of paint can breathe new life into a dated interior or exterior. Sticking with neutral colors is a safe bet when looking for resale value. 4. Curb Appeal Improving the curb appeal can make a big difference in your home’s value. Power washing areas like the driveway, walkway or siding, making sure the lawn is mowed and hedges are trimmed all make a difference. Even small touches add up – a fresh coat of paint for the front door, replacing outdated exterior light fixtures, freshening up the mailbox paint or house number all tell a story about how well the inside is cared for. 5. Tackle the To-Do List Taking care of the minor repairs that have been adding up on your to-do list will help improve your home’s “Effective Age” rating. Leaky faucets, cracked trim, torn screens and holes in drywall are all fairly easy repairs that can have an immediate impact. Making sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and functional is an important safety feature. 6. Make an “Improvements List” You did all the work, now make sure it’s noted! Create a list of improvements and repairs you’ve made to your home with the dates completed. Give a copy to the appraiser and this will ensure they don’t miss a thing when completing their final analysis.