Tag: renovations

Daily Happenings, Real Estate

How to Build Home Value

Lora Knows...

Whether you sell in 3 years or 30, one thing is true, a well-maintained home is worth more. You don’t need constant renovations — just smart decisions and consistency.

Stay on Top of Maintenance – Small problems become expensive ones when ignored.

Focus on:

  • Roof + gutters (clean & repair early)
  • Annual HVAC servicing
  • Fixing leaks and plumbing issues fast
  • Exterior paint, caulk, and siding upkeep

A cared-for home always shows better and sells better, so choose smart, high impact upgrades. Remember not all renovations pay off, so prioritize improvements a buyer would love.

  • Updated kitchen surfaces or appliances
  • Refreshed bathrooms (tile, lighting, fixtures)
  • Energy-efficient upgrades (insulation, smart thermostats, LED lighting)
  • Curb appeal boosts (landscaping, lighting, fresh front door)

Upgrade to match your neighborhood. Your home doesn’t exist in a bubble so pay attention to what’s happening around you.

  • Features in top-selling homes
  • New parks, schools, or restaurants
  • What buyers in your area want (home offices? outdoor space?)

Aligning your updates with local trends builds real value. For example improving your homes energy efficiency can be a boost to your homes attractiveness. Buyers will love lower utility bills, and some will love doing something good for the environment. Some simple solutions can be:

  • Seal drafts
  • Add attic insulation
  • Install smart thermostats
  • Upgrade to efficient appliances

However, if you plan to stay in your home a while there are some bigger upgrades that will pay off even more. These would include new windows, HVAC system or even solar panels.

A lot of today’s buyers want functional, flexible spaces. As more and more work from home their home needs to be able to adapt to the ever changing roles in their lives. Having versatility is a great way to have long term appeal.

  • Office/guest room combos
  • Finished basements
  • Built-in storage
  • Outdoor living areas

Don’t forget to keep your receipts, warranties, service logs and even photos for your records. These are great to share when selling your home and gives confidence to potential buyers.

Long-term value isn’t about one big renovation. It’s about consistent care, smart upgrades, and staying in tune with your market. If you do that, your home will reward you now and later.

Real Estate, Style

Renovating – Have a Plan

Lora Knows...

Home renovations can be complex and challenging. Proper preparation is crucial for a successful project. Here are three key steps you should take during the preparation process to increase the likelihood of a successful home renovation:

  1. Define Your Goals and Budget:
  • Start by clearly defining your renovation goals. What do you want to achieve with this project? Whether it’s adding space, modernizing a room, or improving energy efficiency, having a clear vision is essential.
  • Determine your budget. Establish a realistic budget that takes into account all costs, including materials, labor, permits, and contingencies for unexpected expenses. It’s essential to have a financial plan in place to avoid overspending.
  1. Plan and Design Carefully:
  • Work with a professional architect or designer to create detailed plans for your renovation. They can help you make the most of your space, choose materials, and create a timeline for the project.
  • Obtain any necessary permits. Depending on the scope of your renovation, you may need permits from your local government. Ensure you have all the required paperwork in order before you begin construction to avoid potential delays and fines.
  • Create a project timeline. Develop a realistic schedule that outlines the order of tasks, from demolition to finishing touches. This will help you and your contractors stay on track.
  1. Choose Reliable Contractors and Suppliers:
  • Research and hire experienced, licensed contractors. Get recommendations, check references, and request multiple quotes. A trustworthy contractor is essential for the success of your renovation.
  • Select high-quality materials and products. The materials you choose will impact the durability and aesthetics of your project. Invest in reliable, long-lasting products that align with your budget.
  • Communicate effectively with your contractors. Maintain open and clear communication throughout the project. Discuss any changes or concerns promptly to avoid misunderstandings and delays.

In addition to these three key steps, it’s important to be flexible and expect the unexpected during the renovation process. Delays, unforeseen issues, and design changes can occur. Having a contingency plan and some extra funds set aside for such situations is advisable.

Overall, a well-thought-out plan and careful preparation are key to a successful home renovation. When you take the time to define your goals, create detailed plans, and work with reliable professionals, you increase the chances of achieving the results you desire while staying within your budget and timeline.