Homeowners are always concerned with ‘what’s their house worth.’ Other than normal appreciation, there are ways you can increase your home’s value. Here are seven options to consider.

Add Square Footage

There are a number of ways to increase your home’s value by adding living space. You can build an addition onto the side or back of your home, or add a second or even third level to your existing home. Consider unfinished spaces that can be converted into extra living areas, like the attic, basement or garage.

Remodel High-Value Rooms

Kitchens and bathrooms are always high-priority items on any homebuyer’s list and remodeling them can increase your home’s value by approximately 27%, according to Jeremy Sicklick, CEO and co-founder of HouseCanary. Invest in upgrading, expanding or renovating these rooms for the biggest bang for the buck.

Related: Home remodeling projects that will bring you the most return on investment

Choose Quality Finishes

When you choose high-quality items for your home, like granite countertops and stainless steel appliances, you not only get to enjoy them for yourself, you’ll increase your home’s value for when you’re ready to sell. In addition, higher-quality products last longer and look more beautiful.

Even smaller items can increase your home’s value. Switch out doorknobs from brass to brushed nickel, or upgrade lighting to LED. This bright lighting will make your house feel lighter and more inviting. Choose items that are popular and you’ll see a return on your investment.

Go Green

Today’s home buyers are more concerned about the environment and looking for homes with eco-friendly features. When remodeling, invest in energy efficient appliances and equipment, from your kitchen appliances to your heating and cooling systems. Switch out windows for more energy efficient ones. As an added benefit, you’ll enjoy lower utility bills.

Add Technology

Smart home products are popular options in today’s marketplace and can help increase your home’s value. You might consider installing a smart thermostat, camera system, lighting system, locks, and a fire/carbon monoxide system.

Improve Landscaping

The outside of your home is just as important as the inside, so don’t overlook the value of great landscaping. There’s something to be said for curb appeal. Think of the landscaping as the first impression. You hopefully won’t show up at job interview wearing torn blue jeans. Invite visitors into your home from the moment they arrive with plants, flowers, walkways and interesting hardscape features.

Paint

Nothing refreshes a home more than a coat of paint—both on the inside and the outside. If you’re looking to sell soon, stick to neutral colors. Other than that, let the paint color set the tone for your design style. Paint can add drama or create a soothing surrounding. Paint can also help restore worn or dirty areas of your home. Work with your designer to select the right paint colors for your home remodel.

Increase Your Home’s Value with a Remodel by Schroeder Design/Build

At Schroeder Design/Build, we have professional architects and designers on staff to help you design, build and outfit your home remodel. Or we can build you a custom home from the ground up! Talk to us about how to increase your home’s value in Northern Virginia.