Second Nature

This article has a lot of good advice, which is why I included it in full. Be sure to check out the “Jayme Tips” through out the article. Also, be aware that I do not agree with the vinyl section  – please see my comments.

By House Doctors
Mar 15 2010

As homes sit on the market, many people are finding themselves staying in their current residence for longer than originally expected. As a result, this spring is a perfect time to make those home improvements that you’ve been putting aside. But how do you know you’ll get your money back when the housing market finally stabilizes?

Here are some tips.

Give your kitchen and bathroom a face-life

A minor kitchen remodel – painting, refinishing surfaces and upgrading appliances – will return more than a full revamp. Consider cosmetic upgrades in your bathroom such as new plastic laminate counter tops and new toilet seats. Kitchens and bathrooms should have modern lighting as well as new faucets, cabinet hardware and cabinet door faces. These key spaces should look bright and clean. (Jayme Tip… Choose materials which are not toxic; check out the ecohaus storefront for ideas!)

Replace damaged shingles

Replace any roof shingles that are missing or damaged. Deteriorated shingles or other roof coverings are one of the first things home buyers and home inspectors notice. If the elements underneath the shingles are moist or rotted, repairs must be made. If possible, insert a water repellent layer under the shingles. A functional roof is one of the most essential parts of a home.

Add a bedroom or bathroom – if necessary

These additions should be done in relation to other homes in your neighborhood. For example, if houses in your neighborhood have an average of 3 bedrooms and 1.5 baths and you have 3 bedrooms and 1 bath, adding ½ bath will definitely pay off. If all the homes in your neighborhood have at least 3 bedrooms and you only have 2, it will put your home at a disadvantage. Adding another bedroom will translate into a higher return on investment. (Jayme Tip… Don’t forget to apply for the necessary permits!)

Paint a fresh coat

A freshly painted home – especially exterior – is more inviting. Definitely paint the front door and window shutters, and try to repaint any rooms inside the home that have cracks or stains. Painting the interior of your home is quicker than painting the exterior, and is a faster way to increase the value of your home than a full room remodel. Clean walls and trim make a house look sharp. (Jayme Tip… Choose No VOC or low VOC paint; it is available from every manufacturer and is pretty much the same cost as normal highly-toxic paint. Painting is an easy way to update rooms, however you should take your family’s health into consideration and keep toxins out of your home!)

Buy new windows

New windows can drastically change the look of a room and replacing single pane windows for high-end double pane windows not only looks better but will save you money on heating bills. If you decide to keep the current ones, however, make sure window panes and windows are clean and shiny. Dirty windows make a home look messy. (Jayme Tip… Choose windows, doors and skylights which qualify for the federal 2010 tax credit. Check out the Energy Star website for more details.)

Restore the siding

Vinyl siding is popular, because it is low maintenance and lasts a long time. In neighborhoods where vinyl siding has become more common, shiny new siding can add value to your home. If you don’t think it’s necessary to re-do the whole house, keep in mind that it is possible to replace a single vinyl panel of siding. (Jayme Tip… Stay away from vinyl! Choose natural wood siding instead. If you haven’t already seen “Blue Vinyl” check it out. It really opens your eyes to the toxicity in the product and life-cycle issues.)

- Jayme Mattson

http://jaymemattson.com