Raise Your Property Value Sky High

by Ashley Lichty

You house is more than a home and shelter for you and yours - it’s a guarantee of security. A home is an investment, one that you may need to count on later, so taking steps to increase your property value over time is ALWAYS a good bet. You never know when some emergency may strike and you have a need for large sums of money - which owning a home can provide.

Of course, the higher your property value, the better off you’ll be should such a situation arise. If you are a homeowner desiring a secure future, it is all the more important that you take steps to maintain and increase your property value in the long run. Even if that tragedy never strikes, should you decide to sell your home, you’ll be more than happy that you’ve kept your value up.

To start pushing up your property value, pay attention to your curb appeal. The nicer the outside looks, the higher the perceived value tends to be - and you’d be surprised at what that can do to your actual value! Not to mention, great curb appeal leads to a speedier sale!

A good landscaping job can add up to 20% to your property value and can even wind up saving you up to 25% in heating and cooling bills. It’s important not to mess up your curb appeal and do a haphazard job by not planning out your landscaping. In the end, if you’re not willing to do in-depth research and really commit to following through, it’s best just to hire a professional.

Painting or re-siding your home, as well as cleaning up the gutters can help your property value grow a bit. Also, look into fencing in your yard, as secure yards tend to be in higher demand - and get some good outdoor lights to give the property a more secure feel. Another area to consider is parking - make sure areas are clean and clear and be sure to fix any potholes!

Improvements to the inside of your home can also help raise your property value. For one, homes with central air conditioning are almost always preferred. Kitchens are another biggie - most buyers want spacious kitchens. Even if your kitchen is a bit small, you can give the illusion of space by using shelves and hanging racks and keeping it clear of clutter.

Most important of all when it comes to maintaining your property value is MAINTENANCE. Don’t let things fall into disrepair, keep all major areas in working order, replace window screens, water fixtures, light fixtures, etc. on an as needed basis. Remember that cosmetic repairs (new paint, carpets, etc.) have a neutral affect on property value since it’s all a matter of opinion.

As always, do your own research before jumping right into home improvements. Treat your property value like your credit score - check on it on a regular basis and slowly but surely do things to improve it. By putting some of these tips into practice, you can easily increase your property value throughout the years.