Upgrading your home can be exciting, but it can be difficult to know the best areas to invest in as a homeowner. While you don’t always have to make changes with an eye on how it will affect the future sale price of your house, it is useful to understand how the upgrades you make will affect your property value and whether or not you can expect to see a return on the investment if you ever choose to sell. If you’re already renovating, it makes sense to get as much done as you can while you’re having work done, and there are always improvements to be made, especially with an older home. If you’re hoping to make some home improvement in 2021, read on for three project ideas you can get started on next.
1. Upgrade your HVAC.
The average HVAC system has a lifespan of around 15 years, so if yours is older than that, it might be time to get a new one. Although an initial investment is required for installations like an HVAC system, energy-efficient upgrades can lower your monthly expenses. Newer HVAC systems tend to be more energy-efficient, in addition to providing better indoor air quality, and many newer systems can even integrate with various smart devices in your home. An HVAC upgrade makes sense as the first step for anyone looking for the best way to combine an essential home upgrade with savings on their utility bill.
2. Do some landscaping.
Landscaping can mean whatever you want it to, from adding some color to a garden to redoing your lawn. If you’re not looking for an overhaul and a new lawn, you can invest in covering bare spots and adding high-quality fertilizer and nutrients to your lawn care routine. More significant landscaping, however, can serve multiple purposes for homeowners. Having a visually pleasing environment is proven to reduce stress and boost your mood and add your own personal touch to a home, but landscaping has practical benefits. Most prospective buyers value an attractive new lawn when looking for a new property, and you can also invest in safety features like fencing to help protect your pets and children.
3. Improve your utilities.
While it’s not a home improvement project that requires elbow grease or any construction, ensuring your cable and internet service are the highest quality available to you will certainly improve your experience at home. However, it can be difficult to know what plan and service are best for you and will provide the best connection at a reasonable price. Take the time to use an online service or talk to an expert to compare several different options in your area before making a choice. Spending a little extra for high-quality service is usually worth the cost, especially for those who work from home or stream many TV shows.
Home improvement projects can range from the minor to the absolutely transformative, but it’s best to focus on things that can be done without leaving home unless you’re prepared to put in a substantial amount of time and money. You’d be surprised how many areas you can find to make upgrades that won’t take more than a couple of hours of work. Not only will improving your home benefit your experience living there, but you may also find that certain changes will help save you money. An efficient HVAC can reduce energy costs and seal up any cracks or crevices in your windows and doors. If you have the income to invest and the time to do a little research, you’ll be able to choose a few projects that really make a difference in your quality of life whenever you’re ready.
