Last Updated on February 9, 2023 by teamobn
While a home’s value is mostly based on the number of rooms, square footage, and interior features included, updating the exterior can also add to its overall value. Not only can upgrading your home’s exterior features boost its value, but it can also increase its curb appeal and make the outdoor living spaces more functional.
Additionally, even the smallest changes on your home’s exterior can significantly increase its resale value, especially if you’re looking to sell in the near future. Updating the exterior should be a top priority before you put your house on the market.
However, not all remodeling projects are the same. Some major exterior improvement projects will only boost your home’s aesthetics but won’t add to your home’s value. And there are many minor improvements that will enhance your home’s curb appeal and boost its resale value, helping you recoup your investment once you put it on the market.
Here are other exterior upgrades that can boost your home’s value and curb appeal:
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1. Replace or Paint the Front Door
As your home’s exterior focal point, your front door should improve your home’s overall aesthetics and make it appear more inviting to your guests. However, a sagging or sticking front door with faded or chipped paint and a drafty frame can be a major turn-off to potential homebuyers. You should consider updating your front door by repairing the damaged parts to ensure it functions properly.
Another easy and inexpensive way to update your front door is by giving it a fresh coat of paint. Choose your front door’s color based on the look you want to achieve, your home’s architecture, and the existing décor. However, some of the color choices you may want to consider for your front door include neutral colors like red, dark green, navy, and black.
This will add a pop of color and attract the attention of potential buyers and guests. If you can afford it, you may consider replacing your dated front door with a new, more modern one that will improve your home’s aesthetics and recoup up to 65% of your investment. A great option is a steel front door due to its energy efficiency, durability, security, and low maintenance.
2. Install a New Garage Door
Upgrading to a new garage door is another exterior improvement that can enhance your home’s aesthetics and boost its overall value. If your garage door doesn’t open and close properly, has obvious signs of damage, or is energy inefficient, you should consider replacing it. You may also consider upgrading your garage door if it’s 15 to 20 years old.
Replacing your garage door can add immense value and curb appeal since it takes up a large part of your home exterior. As the most frequently used entrance to your home, replacing your garage door can also ensure it runs smoothly, which is what every homebuyer wants.
Ensuring that your garage door is functional and properly insulated can also help you save a lot of money on energy bills. Upgrading to a new, more energy-efficient door can provide up to 94% return on your investment at resale. Always consider the material and style of your new garage door before your purchase to ensure it fits your climate and your home’s unique style.
3. Repair or Replace Your Siding
Besides your garage door, upgrading your home’s sidings is another excellent home renovation that can give your home an instant facelift and increase resale value. Loose, cracked, warped, sagging, or falling apart sidings can be an eye sore and affect your home’s value and energy efficiency.
You should consider updating your sidings if you notice signs of deterioration or damage or want to change the overall look of your exteriors. One of the easiest ways to update your sidings and give your home exterior an instant facelift is by applying a new coat of paint. Properly clean and rinse the sidings before you start painting.
Also, consider repairing or replacing any damaged sidings. Make sure the materials you use for siding replacement are eco-friendly, require less maintenance, and are durable enough to withstand even the harshest elements.
Most siding materials come in a wide range of colors and decorative elements that can help spruce up the exterior of your home. This can also give potential buyers a good first impression when they first see your home.
4. Update Your Outdoor Entertainment Area
Adding or extending outdoor living spaces is another excellent way to make your home more appealing to potential buyers and increase its value. Depending on the size of your yard and weather pattern, you may consider installing a deck or patio with an outdoor kitchen, sitting area, and dining area. You may also want to install a pergola to make spending time outdoors with friends and family more enjoyable, especially during sunny days.
If you already have a patio or deck, consider refreshing its look by adding some potted greenery or colorful table vases, upgrading the furniture, a new coat of paint, or even adding a fire pit or water feature. Not only will updating your outdoor living areas improve your exterior curb appeal, but it will also increase the value of your home.
5. Improve Your Windows
While upgrading your home’s window can be quite costly, it can instantly increase your home’s value and create a good first impression for potential buyers if you’re looking to sell your house soon. If you have dated windows that are difficult to operate, lack proper insulation, and allow drafts into your house, you may want to replace them with more modern double-pane windows.
Energy-efficient windows will prevent drafts and retain heat inside, significantly reducing your energy bills. These windows also block hazardous UV rays and are usually incredibly durable, providing a good investment return. They also come in various unique styles and materials, so you can choose one that will improve the curb appeal and style of your home exterior.
6. Replace or Repair Gutters
Gutters are often the most overlooked part of a home’s exterior during home renovations. However, outdated, clogged, or damaged gutters can increase the risk of costly water damage to your home’s exterior and take away from its aesthetics.
If your home’s gutters look outdated and damaged, you should consider replacing them with seamless models to reduce the risk of water damage and add to the overall value of your home.
Gutter systems come in a wide selection of materials and colors to amplify your home’s aesthetic appeal, especially when you want to sell. While replacing your gutters, you might also want to have your roofing condition checked.
If your roofing shows signs of wear and tear or looks dated, consider having it replaced or repaired by a professional commercial roofing company to boost its curb appeal and add significant value to your home.
Endnote
Making any of these upgrades to your house will instantly boost your exterior’s curb appeal and increase your home’s resale value. This way, your home will make a good first impression when potential buyers come for showings and give you a maximum return on investment after the sale.