Every homeowner is looking for ways to boost the value of their home – especially if they are planning on selling. You may find yourself in this very same situation; searching for ways to increase your home’s value through some upgrades and renovations that will have home buyers starting a bidding war for your Ottawa property.

Luckily we have put together a list of the top 10 home renovations that you can do to upgrade your home and increase the value when it’s time to sell!

#10 – A fresh coat of paint to the exterior will definitely help raise curb appeal. We recommend keeping it fresh, simple, with warm earthy colours that will appeal to all home buyers.

Note: avoid drastic and bold colours that are likely only going to be your personal favourite!

#9 – Installing vinyl siding will definitely spruce up your home’s exterior and is very affordable. Plus there are many colours and styles to choose from so your options are open.

Note: When having work done to your home’s exterior it is the perfect time to have your contractor put in some spray foam insulation as this will make your home more energy efficient during the cold winter months in Ottawa.

#8 – Add new aluminium soffit and fascia to the mix – it’s an inexpensive upgrade that is sure to stand out and there are many aluminium products that come in a variety of colours and never require painting.

Note: While you can likely get away with doing this yourself, part of raising your home’s value is more than just a home buyer’s perception – it is also about what you can show you have invested and this is where a contractor comes in handy because the potential buyer can rest assured knowing that it was done properly and likely comes with a workmanship warranty.

#7 – Landscape to create a beautiful oasis that is visually appealing and a sign of a caring homeowner, which goes a long way to reassuring potential buyers.

Note: Keep the landscaping simple and modern. Keep in mind that this is one of the areas that can really increase the value of your home so don’t hold back!

#6 – Have your contractor build a deck or patio to increase the functional area of your home as well as give potential buyers the visual of hosting gatherings with their friends and family in their new home.

Note: It is a good idea to have your contractor recommend good materials that will provide a longer life for the deck and also increase the home value that much more because the new buyers will have peace of mind knowing that the deck is solid and will not need replacing anytime soon.

#5 – Don’t forget about your basement! While this may be an area that many home buyers don’t put at the top of their list, you can be sure that when they enter an unfinished basement they start to think about how much work it will take to complete the basement. You don’t have to go overboard here as simply finishing the walls and ceiling and leaving the space empty can actually play more in your favour. Plus if there isn’t much in your basement it will be relatively easy for contractors to move around and put in the finishing pieces.

#4 – Replace your home’s windows and doors to make your home more energy efficient, modern, and provide a new, fresh look to both the exterior and interior of your home.

Note: Make sure measurements are done by yourself and the contractor of the windows/doors. This cannot be stressed enough.

#3 – Renovate your bathroom to create that perfect oasis for potential home buyers. Plus you will get to enjoy the relaxation time until you sell. Bathrooms are usually at the top of most home buyers list so pay close attention to these rooms in your home upgrading. You can do a lot in a bathroom that is very affordable, especially when compared to other types of renovations – that is if you plan it right and keep the upgrade simplified yet elegant and modern.

#2 – Change your kitchen countertops. Your cabinets may be okay but you will likely need to replace your countertops. When most people think of countertops they think of granite. While granite is nice it is also costly and will not increase the value of your home that much more than some of the significantly less costly options – which still look incredible. Do yourself a favour and throw your preconceived notions of countertops and granite out the window and ask your contractor for advice on alternative options. You’ll be amazed at many of the affordable alternatives to granite that are stunning and easy on your wallet.

#1 – Replace your kitchen cabinets. This is a biggie as most stats out there today regarding increasing home sales and home buyer opinions on most desired upgrades state that this is one of the best areas you can improve to add value to your home. Depending on your home renovations budget, you have a plethora of options available for you to choose from although it is important to remember that you are trying to sell your home at some point and should try and settle on something that is going to be appealing to most home buyers while providing the boost to your home’s value.

We wish you good luck with your home sale and recommend that you give us a call to discuss your home renovations projects and home upgrades. We have a tremendous amount of knowledge on all things to do with home renovations and remodelling and we have the team to make your dreams come true.