Renovating your home, Where To Start
If you have chosen to renovate your home or investment property to try to gain a bit of value in the home you have likely asked yourself the question; "where do I start?" Don't worry, this is a common question. Renovations are a trying time, especially if you live in the home you are fixing up. The first thing you should decide is whether you are renovating room by room or tackling the whole thing at once. Room by room can be a bit more convenient, but does take longer.
If you are renovating to improve the value of your home there are two definite areas that you should tackle first. The kitchen and the bathroom. As the highest traffic areas in any home, these areas become run down much quicker than other rooms. Also, appliances wear out and wear and tear can cripple any countertop or bathtub. In looking at these two rooms there are certain areas that if improved, will dramatically raise the value of a home.
The Kitchen - Its a simple fact that new kitchens sell homes. This is usually the most social and utilized room in the house. Its also one of the rooms that is most open to wear and tear and to personal tastes. A major selling feature of homes is always new appliances. Get rid of that old avocado-green stove and fridge and replace them with some new modern pieces. Stainless steel is currently very popular and goes with just about any kitchen theme. Black is also a popular choice and is easy to keep looking great. Aside from the appliances, new countertops are always a good selling point. Granite counters are all the rage these days and look fantastic, but they can be pricey. If you don't want to spend to much on the counters, there are a number of options that resemble granite and are a fraction of the cost. at the end of the day you want to have a kitchen with clean lines and an open feel.
The Bathroom - Bathrooms can be a great area for some personal design expression. Custom bathrooms are very popular and are adding thousands of dollars onto homes asking prices. One good thing to consider in the bathroom is whether or not the existing fixtures are attractive and up to date. Old cabinets can make a bathroom look drab and out of date. If you have cabinets in the bathroom, try putting on new doors or if you are so inclined, a pedestal sink. If you are willing to dedicate a few bucks to the process, nothing goes better with a pedestal sink than an old style claw foot tub. These have made a huge comeback in recent years and are a beautiful focal point to any bathroom. Remember, the bathroom is a very utilitarian area, but it can still be a discussion point and a beautiful addition to any home if done properly.
By Katie Lancelot