Home improvements offer some excellent benefits which include boosting your property value, reducing your carbon footprint, and creating a healthier and more functional living environment. To give you some inspiration, here are the top five home improvements to consider in 2020.
1. Switch to renewable energy
Global warming is having an increasingly noticeable effect on our planet and concerns for our environment are growing. In response to this, more and more homeowners are becoming eco-conscious and searching for ways to reduce their environmental impact. One simple way to instantly reduce your carbon footprint is by switching to renewable energy like solar power. Solar panels can be installed on the roof of your property and provide you with a source of clean, green energy. On top of the environmental benefits, you should also be able to save money on your energy bills as you will no longer be affected by annual electricity increases. What’s more, you will essentially have access to a free energy source once the installation fees have been paid one, which is typically in around eight years.
2. Modernize your kitchen
The kitchen is one of the most popular areas of the home to carry out improvement projects. Modern families spend a lot of time in the kitchen and a stylish, functional kitchen is high on the wish list of most potential buyers. For that reason, kitchen upgrades are one of the best improvements when considering ways to enhance your home environment. If your budget allows, then major kitchen remodels can completely transform your home. For instance, redesigning an open plan kitchen-diner area can instantly create a more welcoming and sociable living environment. However, even minor kitchen upgrades can have a huge impact. For a cheap yet effective kitchen improvement, try resurfacing or repainting your kitchen cabinets or replacing your old kitchen flooring with modern styles like laminate or granite. You should also consider purchasing new kitchen appliances that are stylish and eco-friendly. Choosing matching appliances will help give your kitchen a streamlined and uniform look. You can find a great oven range or other popular kitchen appliances by searching online. Make sure that you choose quality appliances made by reputable brands and manufacturers and always look for a generous warranty.
3. Upgrade your bathroom
Bathrooms are another extremely popular area of the home to modernize. Unfortunately, major bathroom remodels usually involve expensive and time-consuming projects. However, it is possible to give your bathroom a facelift on a budget and many small improvements can instantly boost your property value. For example, property experts at HGVT advise that you can replace your bathtub, tiling, flooring, sink, and bathroom fixtures just over $10,000. Once complete, a minor bathroom remodel should give you a return on investment of around 102 percent. Other simple ways to enhance your bathroom include adding additional shower storage, switching to a self-closing toilet seat, and installing a dimmer light switch. These simple upgrades are affordable and will help give your bathroom a more luxurious feel.
4. Invest in home wellness
According to the Home Improvement Research Institute, wellness home improvements are increasing in popularity. Purchases of items such as air and water purification systems are increasing as homeowners search for ways to make their living environment more balanced and healthy. Bringing nature into your home is a simple way to instantly create a healthier and more relaxed environment. This can easily be achieved by purchasing some indoor plants, growing your own herbs, or keeping freshly cut flowers in vases around your home. You should also consider using materials such as wood and stone to help bring more natural elements into your living environment.
5. Create an additional room
Creating an additional room in your home is a highly effective and reliable way to boost your property value and appeal more to potential buyers if you decide to sell. Creating an extra room might seem like a major project, but it may be easier than you think. For example, you may have the option to convert an existing space like the attic or basement by installing electricity, water, flooring, and so on. Once converted, the new space can be used as a home office, a guest room, or a fun games room for your family and friends to enjoy. Another option is to have an extension built onto your property. However, you should keep in mind that you are likely to require planning permission before being able to start any building work. A cheaper and easier alternative would be to install a shed in your backyard, then use this as an additional storage space or room.
Summary
Home improvement projects can be a reliable way to add value to your property and enhance your living environment. Green improvements like installing solar panels can also be an excellent way to lower your carbon emissions and make your property appeal to a larger audience if you decide to sell in the future. Make sure that you consider some of the above upgrades when searching for ways to improve your home this year.
