Maximize Property Value With These Underrated Home Improvements

Are you thinking of selling your home, or do you simply want to give it a facelift? Home improvements can maximize your property value, regardless of your intention. However, most people focus on obvious renovations like bathroom remodels or kitchen overhauls. While these upgrades indeed hold their merit, there are lesser-known home improvements that can send your property’s value soaring. This post explores ten underrated home improvements to help you increase your property value.

Rain Chains

Rain chains are elegant, decorative chains or series of linked cups or funnels hung from roof eaves to guide rainwater from the gutters to a collection system or the ground. They are functional and aesthetically pleasing alternatives to traditional downspouts.

While they might seem a minor detail, rain chains have a unique ability to enhance your property’s visual appeal and functionality, maximizing its value. They can be simple or ornate, colorful or copper-colored, classic or themed, depending on your preference.

Some feature watering cans or lilies, others hearts, but they are all understated but charming. They’ll add a touch of charm and elegance to your home’s exterior. When rainfall comes, your rain chains will create a mesmerizing visual spectacle that can transform an ordinary downpour into a tranquil and enchanting experience. The visual delight creates a memorable impression of your property, which appeals to potential buyers.

Additionally, these eye-catching architectural accents enhance your home’s overall aesthetics. They add a unique and artistic element to your home’s exterior, elevating your property’s curb appeal. With rain chains, your property will stand out in the neighborhood and increase desirability in the real estate market.

Plus, they are affordable and easy to install. They also tend to become more attractive over time, unlike gutter downspouts. However, rain chains are still among the most underrated home improvements that can maximize property value.

Fireplace Mantels

According to the National Association of Real Estate Appraisers, a fireplace alone can increase your home’s resale value by 6-12%. Add more features and decorations like fireplace mantels, and the value could go even higher. But what is a fireplace mantel, and how can it increase your property value?

A fireplace mantel, also referred to as a mantelpiece, is an architectural feature that surrounds the opening of a fireplace. Traditionally, it was used to prevent smoke from escaping the fireplace and spreading all over the room. However, it has become among the most underrated home improvements that can substantially impact property value.

A fireplace mantel can be a standalone (floating mantel or mantel shelf) or as part of a complete fireplace surround.

Here are some functions of the fireplace mantel;

• Make your fireplace a focal point for a room
• Provide a shelf for placing decorative household items
• Keep the fireplace in line with your home’s décor
• Cover the lintel and joints around the top of your fireplace opening

Choosing a fireplace mantel that complements your home’s style and character is essential. You can order custom fireplace mantels to transform your ordinary fireplace into stunning architectural features while maximizing your property’s value. A custom and thoughtfully designed fireplace mantel creates an impression of luxury and sophistication, making your property attractive in the real estate marketplace.

In-Ground Pools

Do you know that swimming is the fourth most popular recreational activity in the United States? Perhaps it’s due to the long list of benefits, including stress reduction and improved well-being. Therefore, when searching for a property to buy, many homebuyers in the U.S. will consider a home with a pool installed.

In-ground pools can add significant value to your property. Research says it can boost your home’s worth by approximately 7%. Yet, it’s an underrated home improvement many homeowners are yet to discover.

An in-ground pool creates an entertainment space and enhances outdoor living. It transforms your outdoor area into an inviting oasis of recreation, relaxation, and entertainment. It also creates a focal point for social events, family activities, and outdoor gatherings, offering a dedicated space for leisure and enjoyment.

Moreover, an in-ground pool serves as an extension of your living space, offering you a resort-like experience in your backyard. This adds substantial value to your property, making it more appealing and desirable to potential buyers. Some buyers, especially those seeking homes with pools, may be willing to pay a premium for the added convenience and luxury an in-ground pool provides.

However, research local regulations before undertaking a new pool installation and consider maintenance costs. If you’re considering selling your property in the future, assess the preferences of your target market and install an in-ground pool that meets their needs and preferences.

Radiant Heating

If you’re looking to increase your home’s comfort and value, consider radiant heat a worthy investment. Though costly to install, radiant heat is energy-efficient and among the most underrated home improvements for heating your home and adding value to your property. But what is radiant heat, and how does it soar your property value?

Radiant heat refers to the transfer of heat from a hot surface. You can use radiant heating systems like electric heaters and radiant cooktops to heat the floors or panels in the wall or house ceiling. The radiant systems usually run beneath the floor, and when the floor heats up, it releases the heat into the room, which is then absorbed by objects.

There are various radiant heating systems, including;

• Electric radiant heating systems: Use electric coils to produce heat.
• Hydronic radiant heating systems: Uses a boiler to heat water. The water is then pumped throughout the house in tubing underneath the floor.
• Air radiant heating systems: Use heated air for heat transfer. However, it is the least efficient method that we don’t usually recommend to homeowners.

Radiant heating lets your home stay warm for longer, making it more energy-efficient. As a result, your monthly energy bills will be lower, which is a plus when in the real estate market. The consistent and gentle warmth enhances the overall comfort level in your living space, making it more enjoyable and inviting.

However, if you’re considering this underrated home improvement, use experienced heating contractors for quick and safe installation.

Solar Shingles

Solar shingles are another set of underrated home improvements with the potential to maximize your property value. Homebuyers who prefer solar energy will consider properties with solar panels or solar shingles. The difference between these two can be in their aesthetic features, although there are other factors to consider.

Solar shingles have thin PV panels that convert the sun’s energy into electricity to power your home. Since they blend into your roof’s design, they are an excellent alternative to solar panels and can significantly increase your property value.

Generally, solar shingles enable you to harness the power of the sun and generate clean, renewable energy. This lowers utility bills while contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle. Consequently, many home buyers value properties that have renewable energy systems. And the presence of solar shingles demonstrates a commitment to making your home more attractive and valuable, especially in today’s eco-conscious market.

Solar shingles also contribute to the overall appeal and desirability of your property. Homes with solar energy systems, like solar shingles, sell at a premium compared to those without solar.

In some areas, properties with solar shingles or any other form of solar system can benefit from tax incentives and rebates, which can help offset the initial installation costs and improve the return on investment for the solar systems. Always seek professional roofing services for the installation of solar shingles.

Air Sealing

Air sealing refers to the process of closing cracks, gaps, and leaks in your building’s envelope to prevent the uncontrolled flow of air between the interior and exterior spaces. It involves sealing gaps around doors, windows, and electrical outlets, among other openings. It also involves insulating areas where air leakage may occur, such as attics and crawl spaces. It’s among the underrated home improvements that can add value to your property.

Air sealing minimizes the air that leaks in and out of your home, which is a cost-effective way to cut heating and cooling costs and increase comfort. There are various air-sealing techniques you can implement, including weatherstripping and caulking.

Caulking is ideal for cracks and openings like those around the window frames and door. On the other hand, weatherstripping is suitable for sealing components that move, like operable windows and doors. According to EPA estimates, homeowners can save about 15% on heating and cooling costs by air-sealing their homes. You can also consider foam insulation to seal gaps in your attic spaces.

Solar Tubes

Solar tubes, also known as light tubes or sun tunnels, are cylindrical structures that capture natural sunlight and transfer it into interior spaces using reflective tubes. They are an excellent option, especially for rooms without windows or with limited access to sunlight. While their primary role is to bring natural light into dark rooms/areas, they can also maximize your property value in several ways, yet they are among underrated home improvements.

First, by providing natural lighting, solar tubes allow for a brighter and more inviting living environment. This reduced the need for artificial lighting, especially during the daytime, leading to energy savings and reduced electricity bills. And no doubt, homebuyers will go for a property with energy-saving benefits.

The versatility of solar tubes also contributes to your property value. Your property will, therefore, be well-positioned in the marketplace, especially for homebuyers seeking a well-lit, inviting, and sustainable living space. If you’re wondering how to install solar tubes, you can hire local roofers for the job.

Fiber Cement Siding

If you want an exterior that protects your property and adds value to it, you might want to consider fiber cement siding. Fiber cement siding is a durable and low-maintenance material used on both residential and commercial projects. It provides substantial protection while maintaining flexibility. The material is made of cement, sand, and cellulose fibers.

The most desirable benefit of fiber cement is durability—it does not rot or require frequent maintenance (repainting). Therefore, it is an excellent exterior solution for a home or any residential project.

Additionally, fiber cement siding gives your property a beautiful appearance. It’s available in shingles, planks, and flat boards. You can buy it pre-painted or pre-stained, or paint it any color you want. The materials are also famous for their wood-like appearance.

Moreover, fiber cement siding offers resistance against the elements. It acts as a barrier that stops moisture infiltration and energy loss. So if you’re looking for an underrated home improvement method to maximize your property value, consider fiber cement siding installation.

Roof Ventilation Systems

Every responsible homeowner knows the importance of keeping their attic and roof well-insulated. Proper ventilation facilitates airflow through the roof space, removing excess moisture, heat, and pollutants. All this happens with the help of roof ventilation systems.

Roof ventilation systems help regulate the temperature in your attic or roof space. This prevents excessive heat buildup. Moreover, the system minimizes the strain on your air conditioning units and other cooling systems, improving energy efficiency and low energy consumption.

Additionally, a roof ventilation system helps extend the lifespan of your roof by preventing the accumulation of moisture and minimizing the risk of rot, mold, and mildew. This leads to long-term cost savings and minimizes the need for roof-related expenses.

Many home buyers are attracted to energy-efficient properties. Your property will likely sell at a premium with a roof ventilation system. In some areas, roof ventilation systems are a requirement to meet building code regulations. When installing roof ventilation systems, hire experienced and certified roofing contractors.

Advanced Plumbing Fixtures

Advanced plumbing fixtures are among the most underrated home improvements that can maximize your property value. They refer to modern and innovative plumbing fixtures that offer improved efficiency, functionality, and convenience. If well-installed, these fixtures can offer several benefits that can make your property sell faster.

For instance, the fixtures are designed to be water-efficient, which allows you to conserve water. Examples include water-saving faucets, low-flow toilets, and showerheads.

Some, like tankless water heaters, offer energy-saving benefits. Smart plumbing fixtures with timers or sensors can adjust flow rates or shut off when not in use, optimizing energy usage. This leads to lower energy bills and reduced environmental impact.

Additionally, many advanced plumbing fixtures come in sleek and contemporary styles to complement various interior design themes. As a result, they add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your property, raising its value. Ensure you hire a qualified and experienced plumber to install your advanced plumbing fixtures and for all other plumbing services.

Want to make your property valuable and attractive to potential buyers? You don’t have to rely on the same old tricks. Some simple and underrated home improvements can work magic for your property, maximizing its value. So if you want to maximize your property value, try the underrated home improvements discussed above.