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Before you start any home improvement project, you should decide on what to do and how much you want to spend, all in the hopes of adding convenience, comfort or value to your home. Unless you plan to stay in your current home forever, you may expect to see a return on investment for your renovations. The truth is that not every upgrade attracts potential buyers. Before you start any enhancements, make sure that your property’s value can also benefit.

Curb appeal

Adding curb appeal to your home is a smart way to invite attention. Maintenance projects such as fresh exterior paint and landscaping can help your house stand out on the street. Stay simple, however; an unusual colour palette or extreme garden arrangement may have the opposite effect. Roof repairs and HVAC installation may also help your bottom line, particularly when it’s time for inspection.

Kitchen upgrade

A renovated kitchen can practically pay for itself, both in terms of use for your family and in value when you sell. Make smart choices when you start a kitchen remodel, including energy efficient appliances, better cabinet storage and an open floor plan to make the space warm and inviting. Decide whether high-end features, such as a coffee bar or double island layout, are a necessity for you, as they may not be desirable to the next owner.

Bathroom remodel

Bathrooms are always worth an update, but again, spend wisely. It makes more sense to stick with a simple bathroom remodel such as fresh paint, tile flooring, new shower heads and taps and stylish mirrors. Unless you have your heart set on a jetted tub, you may want to skip it, as buyers may not see it the same way you do. You can consider adding a bathroom if you only have one or two but decide if the cost benefit is there.

Neutral interior

Vibrant colours or bold patterns may spark joy for you, but for potential buyers, they may not have the same impact. Take away some of that personality in favour of freshly painted walls in a neutral shade recommended by interior designers. Refinishing your hardwoods, changing outdated light fixtures and replacing floor tiling can also freshen your home and make it more appealing when you list your property.

Finished basement

An unfinished basement does not usually count in overall square footage of your home. Finishing it and even adding a full bath on that lower level adds another floor of liveable space that can work as a rec room, movie theatre, man cave, home office or extra guest bedroom. It can also save you money over a room addition because it uses the same footprint of your existing home. If you don’t have a basement, think about finishing attic space if it’s a cost-effective way to expand your space.

When you complete any of these home remodelling projects, your home is not only more functional for your family, but it’s also more attractive to prospective buyers when you sell your property. Decide which renovation is the best fit for you, and who knows, you may love the changes so much you won’t want to sell!

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