Best Investments for Improving the Value of Your Home

When it comes to home renovation, how can you get the biggest bang for your buck? Lynda Reeves and Beth Hitchcock discuss the best investments for improving the value of your home in this House & Home video:

Gardening and hardscaping gives your home a great presence in the winter and in the summer. Think of it as an extension of your living space. If you don’t have a cottage or country house, you can create that “vacation” feeling in your yard with the right improvements.

Having a “wow factor” is the most important investment. It may be a unique fireplace or stairwell, upcycled vintage doors, NaNa Walls or any feature that makes your home memorable.

Kitchens and bathrooms are what sell your house; these are the spaces that will give you the biggest return on investment. Add features that reflect your personality, like an architectural antique, a piece of art, a freestanding tub or marble countertops.

Customization is important, especially for people who are downsizing from a house to a condominium. Storage is key, so adding built-ins or hidden storage will maximize the space.

Adding a real fireplace (if you can) is a great investment. If you have an existing masonry fireplace but don’t want the mess of real wood, you can invest in a log set that just vents through the chimney.