You’ve done it! A house is in your name! But what now? Having this asset actually comes with a huge responsibility—towards yourself. Make sure you know how to turn this asset into an even better asset that gives you some return on your investment if you should sell on day.
With everything from skylights to garden upgrades, we’ve got you covered. Here are the smartest renovations to invest in first, even if you’ve never done this before.
Why Renovate?
You may read this because you purchased a fixer-upper, in which case renovating was part of the plan. The tips below will already make a difference in your house that requires some TLC.
But don’t underestimate the value of renovations for any home. Features and styles—from paint colours to security installations—can become outdated, which greatly affects selling prices. Also, why not make your home a more functional, inviting space for yourself?
Eventually, the money you pour into this project will come back to you thanks to a higher selling price one day. And in the meantime, you’re creating a better lifestyle for yourself.
Renovations Anyone can Try
Good news everyone! Renovations aren’t just for the reno-experts you see on YouTube! Of course you may need to call in a pro to assist now and then. But even by yourself you can implement impressive changes that will transform your new home—into a place you’ll love even more.
Adding a Skylight
First off, adding light of any kind will be a good plan. So do consider brightening dark corners with overhead lights.
However, natural light is the clear winner. If you work with natural light falling onto the desk, you’ll experience less eye fatigue compared to working in low light or artificial light conditions. Also, if a skylight installation—or bigger windows—lead to lighter rooms, they’ll feel more spacious.
Using a skylight has added benefits of helping you lower your electricity bill. How? Because you won’t have to flick on that light switch in the middle of the afternoon anymore.
Try this tip for dark entrances, your attic or even a bedroom that doesn’t feel that inviting—yet. Some skylights you can put in yourself, but do consider the help of a professional, so you know its positioning is correct and there’s no damage to your existing structure.
Rethinking the Use of Space
Another way to make your house seem more spacious and inviting is to take a good look at what you can change to use floor space more efficiently.
In some cases, a simple decluttering can free up room and let it feel less cramped. Perhaps it’s finally time to let go of that antique chair that’s anyway too uncomfortable to sit on? And winter jackets can go into storage along with forgotten toys or the craft supplies you’ll only use during the holidays again.
Better use of space can require renovations, such as breaking down a wall or building functional storage. But it can also just be about using a space in a different way. Use these nifty ideas as inspiration for how you can use your room layout, furniture and décor better:
- In a small bathroom, install floating cupboards, so you can still use the space underneath. It also creates the illusion of having more space to move about in.
- Remove a wall to create an open-plan feel between different living areas and regain some floor space.
- Use walls more creatively, such as adding storage above the door.
- Find one piece of furniture that serves multiple purposes, so you need fewer pieces in the room. A bench can serve as seating, a side table and even storage if there’s a cavity inside.
Upgrading Hardware and Fittings
If any of the above seems a bit too overwhelming, simply go to the hardware store and ask what’s the latest trends in kitchen and bathroom fittings. Changing handles of cupboards and door handles will immediately upgrade the look, especially if your home currently has hardware from a decade or two ago. It’s one of the most affordable changes that make the biggest impact.
A Wall or a Floor Transforms a Room
And once you see the transformation a few door handles can do, you WILL want to do more. So then try a new coat of paint on one or all the walls in a room. Lighter colours can make rooms seem bigger and warmer tones can make a cold room feel warmer. It’s an effective way to bring about change, and you don’t need special skills to get this one right.
The floor is another option, but it may require help or watching some online videos. Rip out carpets and install some laminate flooring. Or sand down the wooden surface and revarnish for an instant upgrade that doesn’t need structural changes.
What About Outdoors?
Lastly, future buyers will love knowing the garden is a beautiful, but also functional area. This makes a new deck, a patio or an awning a huge asset.
What’s your first project? Do you have any questions? Tell us in the comments!