It’s that time of year again — the weather is getting warmer, flowers are starting to bloom, and taxes are being returned. With a little extra cash in your pocket, there are endless possibilities of what you can do with it. Why not spend some of it on updating your space? Below you will find 10 ways to update your home with your check from Uncle Sam.
Recaulk / Paint
A fresh coat of paint can brighten a whole space. Even just painting baseboards (which get dirty and are often forgotten about) will make a world of difference.
Buy a Fabulous Rug
Rugs are a great way to tie a space together. As a general rule, the outer edges of the rug should be around 6 inches from the wall in a small room and 18 inches from the wall in larger areas. In an open-concept floor plan, area rugs are a great way to frame seating and dining areas, which will help to define the different uses of the space.
Upgrade Your Water Heater
Not the most exciting purchase in the world, but buying a new water heater can save you money down the road. New models are energy efficient.
Upgrade Your Ceiling
It may be time to actually / finally get rid of the popcorn ceilings in your home. Save yourself some time and a backache and hire a professional to do it. Installing crown molding or box beams can go a long way to creating a fresh look that's visually interesting.
Upgrade Your Lighting
Updating an outdated lighting fixture with a new one can change the entire vibe of a space. If nothing else, you should upgrade your bulbs to LEDS — which are really affordable now, will save you energy and come in a wide variety of colors and wattages.
Upgrade Your Flooring
Expect to pay between $7 and $12 per square feet for quality wood flooring, more if you have it professionally installed. Hardwood floors, which are super popular among homebuyers, can return 1.5 - 2 times its cost when you sell.
Add a Backsplash
Whether it's peel and stick, or hand-painted glass times, kitchen updates have some of the highest returns on investment. Have natural woods and neutral walls? Opt for a bold pattern!
Add Curb Appeal
Why not update your mailbox, get new house numbers, or repaint your front door. Feeling motivated? Repaint the trim around your windows.
Build a Deck
Homebuyers love decks, and they really aren't that expensive these days (keep in mind price will vary based on materials and size). They typically bring in an 80% - 120% return on your investment. ​
Upgrade Your Outdoor Space
As warmer weather approaches it's a great time to really make an oasis in your backyard. Think comfy seating, a fire pit, a new grill, water features — the possibilities are truly endless.