According to one report, more than 12 million American homeowners plan to sell their primary residence within 18 months. Does that include you?

Whether you’re gearing up to move properties or not, it’s always smart to know how much your home is worth. The resale value reveals how much money you could realistically make if you listed yours at some point in the future.

There are certain changes that you can make to your home to inch this price upward. Even if you intend to stay in your house forever, these updates can make your home more valuable for your heirs. 

Today, we’re sharing a few of the most important ones, as well as how you can get started today. 

1. Add a Fireplace

It might not be the first project you’d think of, but did you know that adding a fireplace can greatly increase your home value? You can also achieve the same effect if you upgrade your existing, traditional fireplace to a more modern one.

Still rocking the wood-burning stove that was original to your house? These fixtures might be aesthetically appealing, but they can be major energy-drainers. Transforming them to a gas or electric model can instantly make your home more eco-friendly — and profitable. 

2. Upgrade Your Bathrooms

The average, basic bathroom remodel will cost homeowners around $18,000. However, experts predict that you can early about 66% of this cost back in improved resale value. 

Before you dive into the cosmetic parts of your project, check to make sure that all of the practical parts of your bathroom are in good working order. If there are any leaky pipes or issues with your fixtures, then you’ll need to go ahead and fix those, first. 

Then, it’s time to design those upgraded bathrooms! Consider whether you need to overhaul the entire space, or if you can save money by simply improving on the current layout. Some of the most impactful changes include installing a new floor or swapping your linoleum shower for a tile one.

You could also look into resurfacing or re-enameling your bath fixtures. If your tub is cracked or your shower tray needs repair, Re Enamel Bath Services can help it look as good as new!

3. Focus on the Kitchen

There’s a reason why they call it the heart of the home. If you’re going to pour your time, money, and resources into a specific part of your home, then start in the kitchen. Begin by making note of any features that could benefit from a usability upgrade.

For instance, is your microwave old and outdated? Is your oven on the brink? Have you always thought that your countertops are too short?

Again, think functional first. Make those changes that can improve the user-friendliness of your kitchen. These are the elements that a potential future buyer will notice first. 

Then, move onto the look of the space. As you do, resist the urge to tear it all out and start from scratch. A full kitchen remodel can cost tens of thousands of dollars. 

Look for ways you can save money without cutting corners. If your cabinets are well-made and functional but simply not your style, then think about painting over them. This is a quick and economical way to add modern character to your kitchen without investing in new cabinetry.

You may even notice that just swapping out the hardware makes an incredible difference!

4. Swap Your Front Door

If you want to sell your house, then you know that curb appeal makes all the difference. Before an interested buyer even steps foot in your home, they’ll begin judging it from the outside. 

While landscaping and exterior updates play a role in this review, they’ll especially notice your front door. If it’s chipped, cracked, or in disrepair, it’s a sign that the rest of your home might be equally neglected.

If yours just needs a fresh paint job, then take care of that right away. Think about painting it a bright, bold color that will make it pop, such as a fun cherry red or sunny yellow. Or, go dark and moody.

One study found that homes with doors painted charcoal gray to jet black sold for roughly $6,000 more than their similar counterparts! Considering that a bucket of paint only costs a few hundred dollars, this is a smart investment that could have a major payoff.

5. Create a Bedroom

Do you have a spare space in your basement that could easily convert into another bedroom? What about a playroom that’s no longer needed because your children have grown?

Extra bedrooms can add to the usable square footage of your home, which will increase its overall resale value. Though figures will vary, you could be looking at adding an extra $20,000 or more to your listing price!

You can also look into finishing off a space that’s currently unfinished, though keep in mind that those construction costs will be higher. Still, this addition can help your home appeal to a greater number of buyers, especially those with large families who will appreciate the extra room.

Amplify the Resale Value of Your Home

To you and your loved ones, your home is priceless. It’s where you make your most treasured memories and spend a majority of your time. However, it’s important to also consider the practical aspects of your property.

The resale value is a smart figure to know, whether you think you’ll list yours in the future or not. If you have the means to do so, it’s worth looking into small-to-midsized updates that you can make today as you plan for tomorrow. 

In the meantime, we’re here with the trusted news and lifestyle advice you need. Be sure to check back often for more of our informative guides!