Home Renovations: Best Bang For Your Buck

Whether you are preparing to sell your home, or just looking to execute some home renovations this year, updating your home does not have to break the bank. Small projects can improve the look and value of a home.

Maintenance

Routine HVAC maintenance per year can cost up to $150. In the spring, make sure your HVAC system is blowing cool air so you are prepared for the summer heat. In the fall, check that your heat is working before the winter season arrives. Be sure to change your air filters monthly and check on your HVAC system’s drain.

Roof maintenance and repair can range from $150 – $250 a year. To maintain your roof, look for missing shingles to prevent exposure to water damage – especially after stormy weather. Keep tree limbs away from your roof so animals cannot access it. Clean your gutters regularly. Seal around your roof’s pipes and boots, which are the most common areas for leaks. Check your chimney flashing for areas where water can enter.

Plumbing maintenance can cost up to $130 a year. If you have an older home, check all of your toilets for wear and tear, along with the possibility of constant running water. Flush out your tankless water heater annually. Ask a professional about pressure gauge checks; Pressure Reducing Valves are under constant high pressure and can slowly go bad and restrict flow and pressure.

Cheap Jobs

Transform your bathtub into a stand-up shower: Converting bathtubs to showers is one of the fastest ways to create immediate value. Especially in areas suffering from droughts such as Austin, people are more water-conscious and are taking less baths. To get started, make sure to research companies you may want to work with to ensure you are hiring qualified professionals. Shower installation averages around $3,200. Though you may end up spending a bit more, you will rest assured that the work was done the right way in a high volume use area of your home.

Update tile to create a sanitary, safe environment: Traditionally, bathing walls were installed with porous grout. This can cause the walls of tubs or showers to become moldy from moisture, especially is hot climate regions like Central Texas. The most effective way to control damage from water is to eliminate the grout by installing slab-like walls, just such large-format tiles, stone and acrylics. Slab wall installation generally starts at around $420.

Invest in landscaping: A good rule of thumb for sellers is to only invest in home renovations that will result in more than a 100 percent return. Hiring a landscaper to add mulch and clean up the lawn for a few hours is often worth the investment in Austin. Professional landscaping starts at around $500. A little can go a long way to increase your curb appeal.

Do-It-Yourself

Modernize your kitchen or bathroom with new fixtures: Fixture replacement is one of the best “bang-for-your-buck” plumbing projects. Faucet, sink and toilet replacements add a fresh new look to your home without breaking the bank. Sinks start at just $31. Stick to name brands, and consult your plumber or showroom consultant for educated fixture recommendations. It is also important to keep all of your manuals and receipts for plumbing fixtures and appliances. These may come in handy when repairs and replacements are necessary in the future.

Paint and upgrade cabinets: In home sales, kitchens and bathrooms stick out the most to buyers when making their purchase decisions. One simple way to freshen up the look of a kitchen or bathroom is to renovate the cabinets by painting them. White is currently a very popular color for kitchens among buyers. You can also update the cabinet hardware – cabinet knobs start at just $1 a piece.