Your home is an investment—a big one at that. And as an investment, you want it to grow and become more valuable over time. One of the best ways you can help increase your home’s value is by making improvements that increase its worth—kitchen and bathroom updates, as well as roof, window, and door repairs, are great choices. From small improvements that only cost $100 to huge $10,000 renovations, here’s a list of projects that will add value to your home in North Portland.
$100 to $200
Plant a tree: It’s true that this is a long-term improvement, but it’s still worth doing now. Mature shade trees can cut cooling costs, and they’re also good for the environment. Plus, they add curb appeal to your home!
Popcorn ceilings: Does anything scream “I’m dated!” like a popcorn ceiling? Have a professional check that the ceiling doesn’t contain asbestos before getting started. But if it’s clear, you can do this project yourself. Spray the ceiling with water, let it sit for 10 minutes, and then just scrape the popcorn away.
Programmable thermostat: Programmable thermostats save a lot of money because they let your heating and cooling systems take a break when you’re not home or at other times when you can raise or lower the temperature (like when you’re sleeping). Go here for a step-by-step; this is an easy thing to do yourself.
Paint: Paint is one of the easiest ways to make your home look better with very little effort or money (though those who have painted a whole house may not agree that it’s little effort).
Front Porch: Add a working doorbell, fix any dingy overhangs, add bright lighting, and don’t forget some plants! This is one of the fastest ways you can add value to your home in North Portland, and it’s an improvement your whole neighborhood will appreciate.
$400 to $600
Minor bathroom updates: Minor bathroom updates like replacing dated or shabby wallpaper, an old toilet, old light fixtures, or ugly hardware will instantly make your bathroom look fresh and modern. You could also use this money to replace a dated vanity, old plumbing, or an old tile floor.
Minor kitchen updates: Minor kitchen updates include swapping out your old microwave for a sleeker version, switching out a stained sink, or painting your cabinets and adding new hardware.
Energy-efficient ceiling fan: A beautiful ceiling fan that also adds light and creates a breeze is a great replacement for old, dated eyesores. Your room will look so much better with this minor improvement.
$1,000 to $1,500
Energy-efficient insulation: Energy-efficient insulation will add value to your home in North Portland by saving you money every single month on your utility bills, both in the summer and in the winter.
Garage door replacement: Replacing your old, beat-up garage door certainly makes the exterior of your home look much more appealing, especially if the garage is a very visible part of the home’s front side.
Front door replacement: Replacing your front door (they tend to get pretty dirty and beat up) is a great way to improve your home. There’s no question that your home will look better after this improvement.
$5,000 to $10,000
Medium kitchen update: Add a new set of appliances, new flooring (and maybe a new countertop, depending on how much you’re wanting to spend), and add a fresh coat of paint to walls or cabinets.
Roof: Replace an old, shoddy roof—it’ll instantly upgrade the look of your home and will also make the entire home more sound. A solid roof is really important to potential buyers, if you’re planning to sell anytime soon. It might not be a deal breaker, but a bad roof combined with other small issues might make your home a harder sell for some buyers.
Wood deck: As outdoor spaces become more and more popular for entertaining, wood decks will likely continue to be a wise choice to add value to your home in North Portland.
We hope this gives you some great ideas for ways you can add value to your home in North Portland. Whether you’re planning to sell in the near future or are just wanting to enjoy your home even more, any of these improvements are a wise choice.