During this time of year, it’s typical to take a personal assessment and set new goals regarding lifestyle, health, investments, and various other areas of our lives. Since your home is likely your most valuable asset, it’s important to factor home improvements into the mix. Those who make even small improvements each year are not only more likely to see a higher return on their overall investment over time, there’s also a sense of pride that comes from completing each task, plus the enjoyment of making each space more “livable”. As you plan your 2017 home improvement goals, keep in mind that research shows that many outdoor living improvements can increase the value of your home at a higher rate than under-beam improvements. Two outdoor living categories that typically have a high rate of return are curb appeal and entertainment spaces.
Improving Curb Appeal
As the old saying goes, you only get one chance to make a first impression. Even small improvements to your front yard can make an impact — both on how you feel every time you approach your own driveway, and how a potential buyer will envision the quality of your home if and when you decide to sell. Some type of curb appeal improvement should be on your “to-do” list each year, whether it’s a minor tweak to the landscaping, adding embellishments here or there (like a new mailbox or built-in planter), or a large project like a driveway renovation.
Upgrading Entertainment Spaces
By upgrading your outdoor living entertainment spaces, not only will you add to the enjoyment that you get out of your own home, every dollar you spend could earn back between 60 cents and $2 on resale, according to reports by Houzz and Realtor.com. Makeover projects should focus on making your outdoor living spaces an extension of your home. According to annual surveys by the American Society of Landscape Architects over the last five years, consistently desirable upgrades include outdoor kitchens, outdoor fireplaces and fire pits, built-in seating, lighting upgrades, and paver patios.
Prioritizing Goals
Before you get started with planning your improvement goals for 2017, you should consider the following factors: 1) How long do you plan to live in your home? 2) What is your overall vision? If you plan to be in your home for many years, you can take a look at your overall vision and break it up into a multi-year plan that puts priority on the projects that YOU most desire. If you plan to sell within the next two years, your money would be better spent on projects that are most desirable in the marketplace. For the lowdown on the most desirable outdoor living features for your specific neighborhood or housing pricepoint, talk to some local realtors.
Getting Started
The first step is to get inspired. Look through Pinterest boards, magazine websites, online inspiration galleries…anything that will help you develop your overall vision. Next, consider meeting with an outdoor living contractor who can provide you with additional design ideas and help you pull together an overall plan, prioritize projects, and set a timeline. To find a Belgard Authorized contractor near you, click here. Next, decide which projects you want to accomplish this year and what you’d rather put off until a later date. Whether your 2017 goal ends up being a major makeover or a simple DIY project, set a date and stick to it. This time next year, you’ll be glad that you did.
Tags
