Five Remodeling Projects Ventura County Homeowners Should Consider

Remodeling can be a scary word.  Especially when you consider the time and effort behind it.  However, homebuyers are looking for a Ventura home that is up to date and ready to move in.  Not all remodeling projects need to cost an arm and a leg or take a huge chunk of time to do.  Here are five remodeling projects Ventura County homeowners should consider:

Remodeling Project #1 - Adding a Wood Deck
Exterior living spaces are a huge draw for Ventura County homeowners, especially in our beautiful Southern California weather.  Making your backyard a more welcome place to relax and entertain will increase the value of your home and make buyers sit up and take notice.  It can be completed over the course of a weekend, too.

Remodeling Project #2 - Kitchen Facelift
The kitchen remains the heart of the household for most Ventura homes and continues to be one of the largest selling points.  The complete gutting and rebuilding that was the norm in the past has given way to a simple facelift.  Sanding and refinishing or painting good cabinets, adding a colorful backsplash, changing the flooring and adding or changing cabinet and drawer hardware can make a huge difference without busting your budget.  A fresh coat of paint can completely change the look of your kitchen and only costs $15-$17 per gallon.  Update your old appliances with newer, more energy-efficient Energy Star appliances.  You can get a rebate from Energy Star, save money while using the appliances (by using less energy) and increase the appeal and value of your home when it comes time to sell it.

Remodeling Project #3 - Room Addition
Now, before you say "What? That'll cost way too much money!", you need to know that I am talking about using your current space to create more usable living area.  While it's true that constructing a completely new addition to the exterior of your home can take time to pull permits, frame, plumb and build, many Ventura homeowners are converting current attic space into a beautiful master bedroom suite.  Basements can be changed from a simple storage area into a wonderful family/bonus room or extra bedroom space as well.  Since the new room has already been included in the original construction of your Ventura County home, you don't need to get plans approved or pull permits.  This saves you time and money and increases the usable living area of your home without increasing your property taxes.

Remodeling Project #4 - Replacing the Entry Door
Something you may not consider when thinking about remodeling your Ventura home is the front door.  But, reports show that replacing your current entry door with a new steel door brings you the best return on your investment.  This is also another project that is relatively inexpensive and can be completed in a weekend.

Remodeling Project #5 - Upgrading Your Garage Door
Another top return on investment is replacing or upgrading your garage door.  Installing a motor to a current garage door that is in good condition will be greatly appreciated when it comes time to sell.  If your garage door is warped or simply worn out, replace it with a windowed, sectional door for a more aesthetically appealing garage door.

These are just five remodeling projects Ventura County homeowners should consider.  They will increase the value of your home without breaking the bank and be more appealing to buyers when it comes time to sell your Ventura home.

Dave and Pat Zumbrun, Your Ventura County real estate specialists