Home remodels have changed dramatically since the end of the real estate boom. Homeowners used to add big-ticket items like double-sink vanities, whirlpool spas and new appliances that would catch the eye of a prospective buyer and translate into a higher home sale. Now, homeowners are more focused on adding sales appeal by improving their home's energy efficiency to reduce monthly bills.
The following list appeared on Forbes.com. Given the current state of the market, you might have to settle for these improvements merely to sell your home faster, as opposed to netting more cash at the bargaining table.
1. Cork Floors - Cork is quickly becoming an alternative to pricier tile and wood-plank flooring. Low-density cork is an effective insulator, plus it doesn't rot when exposed to water (think wine bottles), nor does it absorb dust.
2. Bamboo Countertops - Compressed to the thickness needed for a countertop, bamboo is significantly harder and more dense than woods such as maple-often used for cutting boards-which makes it last.
3. LED Lighting - LED lighting systems use less energy than standard bulbs, which translates into a lower electric bill. LED lights are more expensive than conventional light bulbs, but can pay for themselves over time.
4. Garage Doors - Luxury carriage-door models and revamped pavement leading up to them can boost your home's curb value; this is especially important if your garage is one of your home's dominant features.
5. EnergyStar Windows - You'll definitely pay a bit more for an EnergyStar certified window, but you'll get a 10% rebate from Uncle Sam. You'll also enjoy hundreds per year in saved heating costs.
6. Water-Saving Toilets - Based on the American Institute of Architects' 2008 research, homeowner demand for water-saving toilets has grown. It's easy to see why: 1.6-gallon per flush models use about half the water of conventional toilets.
7. Water Heater - Conventional heaters warm water continuously. Others, like the Takagi Flash T-K3 heats water on demand, a more energy-efficient system that in some households might pay for itself in a year.
8. Radiant Heat - It's estimated that radiant heating is 20% more efficient than conventional heating systems. Though it can be inconvenient and pricey to install a radiant heating system, this luxury buy may save you 20% a year in heating costs.
9. Landscaping - A yard is often the first thing buyers see when they're looking at a home. The National Association of Realtors estimates that 70% of home buyers start the buying process online, and if your front yard pushes people away before they even come to visit the house, you're in trouble.
10. Doorless Showers - Also called walk-in showers, this is a design trend that likely isn't the function of a down economy, but is mentioned again and again as something consumers want. These enclosures are popular among aging boomers, and is a design element that can also be found in high-end urban apartment complexes.
Check out the entire Forbes article.
Comments(0)