With the popularity of house flipping, fixer-upper television shows and DIY projects, more people are opting to take on home renovations — not only for resale value, but to promote happiness within their household. Even something like rethinking a bathroom design can have huge results; not only can it improve function and bring an outdated space into the modern age, but remodeling one bathroom can recoup upwards of 60% of its cost in the home’s resale value. An estimated $284 billion dollars were spent on home improvement and repair in 2012, so it’s clear that Americans are buying into the renovation trend. However, home remodeling can be scary for some people; taking on a seemingly endless project or paying an arm and a leg to a contractor can understandably be a worrisome thought. But there are some simple changes you can make in your home that will make a huge difference in how you (or potential buyers) perceive your space. Here are three home design solutions that will make you see your home through new eyes:
- Spruce up your hardwood flooring
If you’re lucky enough to have hardwood floors in your home, you know how beautiful they can be — and how easily they can be scuffed up. If your hardwood flooring is looking a little worse for wear, sanding and re-staining can make a world of difference. The actual sanding process can get a bit messy, and since sealing application requires significant drying time, the completion can take up to five days. However, the end result is well worth it. It’s like giving your entire living space a fresh coat of paint, and since natural hardwood flooring can last for up to 100 years, your family can enjoy it for generations. - Redesign your wardrobe with new closet solutions
Americans are constantly acquiring new garments at a fast rate, so many of us are in dire need for closet solutions for our current situations. The need for storage is often cited as a desperate need for homeowners, and a great way to obtain more storage options is through a custom closet design. Custom design ensures that the closet solutions are tailor-made to your family’s needs with features you love. Expanding closet space into a walk-in also adds value to the home, and it’ll certainly make a big impact on how you live your daily life. - Change out your carpet or tile for engineered flooring
The presence of carpeting can be tricky for some buyers. For one thing, carpets need to be professionally cleaned on a regular basis (typically, every 12 to 18 months); if not cared for properly, stains and odors can ruin the look and feel of a room. More homeowners are opting for continuous flooring throughout the house when possible, which provides a seamless look. Although carpets account for 51% of the total flooring market in the United States, many people are choosing to switch out their carpeting for engineered flooring or vinyl tile. Engineered wood flooring has the look of real hardwood, but because it has a plywood base covered with a thin layer of wood, it works well in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements — anywhere moisture can be a concern for regular hardwood. If you’re looking for an even more durable solution, there are vinyl tile options that look just like hardwood, too! This type of flooring is great for active families, pet owners, or homeowners that like the look of wood but prefer the feel of tile. Depending on how much carpeting or tile is already in your home, this may be a larger-scale job, but it can add a lot of value to your property and will be aesthetically pleasing for all.
If you’re intimidated by the thought of a renovation, you’re not alone. But don’t be afraid to add value to your home and make it a place you love to be in! From flooring revamps to crowded closet solutions, you’ll see how big a difference these simple changes can make.