The 6 Smartest Renovations

As a homeowner, you are likely to re-sell at some point and should consider the impact of your renovations on the re-sale value of your home.

Remember, choices that you make regarding improvements or renovations can drastically influence your home's market value.

It is almost always a good investment to maintain your property to the highest possible standards. Pay close attention to the condition of the roof and the windows as these are major considerations for buyers.

Introducing the REMAX Return on Reno Index

Of all the renovations that you may consider, some renovations substantially add to the resale value of your home.
For instance, buyers look for the basics to be well maintained and that's why upgrades to your windows and roof are almost always a good investment.
Improvements to the kitchen or bathrooms or flooring are also a very good investment. Adding a fireplace or a new deck may contribute differently to the re-sale value of your home at different price ranges.
Your payback from all renovations varies with the price of your home. Have a look at the 6 simplest and smartest renos for the average home in Canada. Speak to a REMAX realtor for advice on your particular home.

It all starts at the curb

Everyone knows the value of a first impression. REMAX has learned that landscaping the front and backyard of your home will give you a 7% better return on your renovating dollar over the average return on other popular renos. Increasing your curb appeal can be as simple as adding containers of brightly colored flowers. Another idea would be to add a low maintenance garden for blocks of colour and texture. Also consider a simple water fixture in the backyard to add ambience.

The kitchen is the hub

Ever wonder why "kitchen parties" naturally occur every time you have a get-together? Well, it's because the kitchen is the hub of every home. It's where we get nourishment and refreshment, gather and regroup after a busy day. It is a room with real value for every family. At REMAAX we've learned that kitchen upgrades can really deliver, with a 44% higher return on investment than the average return on other popular renos.

Rekindle your passion for living

Nothing beats the feeling of curling up around a fire on a cold winter's night. Not to mention the comforting feeling of hearth and home that a fireplace adds to a room. REMAX return on reno index says that installing or upgrading the fireplace in your home will generate 11% greater return on investment than the average return on other popular renos.

Try a fresh coat of paint

Often overlooked for the dramatic effect it can have on any living environment, REMAX knows that the simple repainting of walls gives you a 29% better return than other popular renos. Whether you go neutral with splashes of colour or warm and dramatic, trends include a mix of strong colours, mixed with nature-inspired neutral-energy colours like orange, aqua, sage and blue, along with neutral palates leaning toward bisque, fawn, gray and walnut.

Disappear in your personal spa

Today's stress-filled world leaves us all crying out for rest and relaxation. REMAX knows making your bathroom the best it can be will generate a 56% better return on investment than the average popular reno. The goal should be to create a spa-like environment in your bathroom by installing a soaker tub with relaxing jets, or perhaps a new steam shower stall.

Great ideas underfoot

Great-looking floors are a strong feature of any home. It often makes all the difference. REMAX knows this upgrade can generate a 22% better return on investment than the average.

Start by ripping out that dated wall-to-wall carpet. Then sand your existing floors down and refinish them, or choose one of the many easy-to-install affordable laminants now available. A darker stain gives an elegant yet-up to date look.