2. 1. Cosmetics that boost curb appeal. if you are
looking to boost your home’s value to hit an
appraisal mark for refinancing, or even just
trying to lure in a buyer to purchase the
place, primping your home’s exterior cosmetics
can be a smart investment.
3. 2. Economical expansion. If you crave more space
and your home can be expanded within its existing
footprint, consider an economical expansion -
having a professional convert your garage or
basement into a rental or mother-in-law type unit
can be an especially good investment if you can
house more family members or bring in some
income within the new living space. Before you
do, though, make sure you get permits and check in
with your local real estate pro to be sure that you’re
not just over-improving the place vis-a-vis the
neighborhood,
4. 3. Greening it up. Upgrades
that improve your home’s
energy efficiency have
inherent value in terms of
scoring you points as a good
citizen of the planet. But they
can also improve your day-to-day living comfort -
and decrease your utility bills. Buying solar panels
can eliminate your electric bill entirely with an
upfront investment; leasing the panels can cost you
nothing upfront and keep your energy bills fixed for
as long as 20 years!
5. 4. Combining quarters. A home improvement
show would be nothing without someone
pointing out how gloriously spacious the
kitchen/dining room, master bedroom or even
two smallest bedrooms could be if they could
just (say it with me, folks): “knock out this wall.”
If you’ve uttered those very words about your
own home, consult with a contractor - many
interior walls are relatively easy and inexpensive
to remove, even if you might need to leave in
and finish off a support beam if the wall does
turn out to be load bearing.
6. 5. Built-ins that make things work. Built-in work
and storage spaces in your office, garage, craft
rooms, kitchen and even otherwise unusable nooks
and crannies are uber-useful and can give you the
feel of a highly customized luxury home without
moving - and without spending much cash. (And
window seats? Don't get me started - who doesn’t
love a window seat?! Similarly, functional furniture
like loft beds, Murphy beds, pot racks, pantries and
armoires can create a highly customized feel and
convenient lifestyle, but you can move them around
the house - or even take them with you whenever
you do decide to move!
7. Homeowners and Realtors: What home
improvements do you think make the most
dollars or lifestyle sense for those who have
decided to stay put in their upside down homes?
8. Randy Bett
Investment Realtor/Author/Investor
Real Estate Professionals Inc.
Better Group Real Estate
202-5403 Crowchild Trail NW
Calgary, AB T3B 4Z1
Phone:403-774-7464 Ext:1
Fax:403-208-0082
Toll Free fax:888-711-6801
