This May, it was reported that home prices jumped another 2.2 percent. Some industry experts are saying the housing market recovery is finally underway. By making do-it-yourself (DIY) upgrades to your home, you can increase the value of your home and take advantage of the recovering real estate market.Mistakes you shouldn't makeBefore getting into what you should be doing, let's talk about what you should avoid doing.
Some DIY projects that will increase the value of your homeRedo your kitchen. Updating kitchen appliances like your refrigerator to one with filtered water as well as energy efficient stove and/or dishwasher, you can increase the value of your home. Also consider replacing your curtains, adding new cupboards, and putting new handles on your drawers. Putting up some wallpaper trim on the walls is another way that you can liven up your kitchen. Why not throw a new coat of paint on the walls while you're at it? It's amazing what a fresh coat of paint can do for your kitchen or any other room in your home.Update your fixtures. Things like light fixtures, curtain rods, doorknobs, switch plates and faucet handles can start to look worn after years of use. Replacing these items is relatively inexpensive and can instantly make your home look better. While you're at it, installing ceiling fans will also help with your home's look and feel and will improve its value.Fix your plumbing and electrical systems. Make sure that you doorbell is in working order. Repair or replace pipes that are leaking. Clean any mildew stains that may have snuck up on you. Update your wiring. Don't spend thousands of dollars fixing up your plumbing and electrical systems. In most cases, you should be able to fix the things that you need to for less than $1,000.Invest in a new front door and windows. Replacing your front door isn't very expensive and helps your home make a great first impression. Choosing an energy-efficient front door and windows is a good way to increase the value of your home. If you don't want to spend money to replace your door, painting it will give it a new and more welcoming look. Instead of purchasing new windows, you can use window treatments to bring your old windows back to life.Learn landscaping. Design a landscape that fits with your property. Plant flowers and bushes to help bring your yard to life. Be sure to remove all the weeds and debris in your yard. Make use of hanging plants and planters. Map out any design ideas that you have before you actually implement them. You can get beautiful design ideas by looking online and in magazines. Don't be afraid to liven up your yard by mixing and matching concepts.Upgrading your home shouldn't be a hassle. You have lived in and (hopefully) loved your abode for a while, so any improvements should be enjoyable. After all, your home will have an increased value after your complete your upgrades, and your surroundings will look amazing. Be creative and have fun!
