When we think about home improvements, painting walls and fixing plaster often come to mind. But there are many other upgrades that can make your home more valuable and enjoyable. Let’s explore some unexpected home improvements that can really pay off.
Energy Efficiency Upgrades
Insulation and Smart Thermostats
One of the best ways to improve your home is by making it more energy-efficient. Upgrading your insulation or installing a smart thermostat can drastically reduce your energy bills. Dr. Sarah Jones, an energy efficiency expert from the University of California Berkeley, says, “The best home improvements are often the invisible ones. Upgrading your insulation or installing a smart thermostat can drastically reduce your energy bills, making it a worthwhile investment that pays off every month.”
According to a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), energy-efficient home improvements can increase property value by up to 5%. This means that not only will you save money on your energy bills, but your home will also be worth more if you decide to sell it.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Patios and Gardens
Don’t underestimate the power of a well-designed outdoor space. A thoughtfully planned patio or garden can increase your home’s value and provide a haven for relaxation and entertainment. Daniel Lewis, a landscape architect from the American Society of Landscape Architects, notes, “A thoughtfully planned patio or garden can increase your home’s value and provide a haven for relaxation and entertainment, adding significant ROI to your investment.”
A study by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) found that homes with well-designed outdoor spaces can see a return on investment of up to 20%. This means that spending money on your garden or patio can actually make you money in the long run.
Water Filtration Systems
Whole-House Water Filters
Investing in a whole-house water filter not only improves the taste and purity of your water but also protects your plumbing from corrosion and hard water build-up. Mark Thompson, a plumbing contractor from the National Association of Home Builders, says, “Investing in a whole-house water filter not only improves the taste and purity of your water, but also protects your plumbing from corrosion and hard water build-up, saving you money on repairs in the long run.”
By installing a whole-house water filter, you can save money on plumbing repairs and enjoy better-tasting water. This is a simple upgrade that can make a big difference in your daily life.
Finished Basements
Extra Living Space
While a finished basement may seem like a luxury, it can add valuable living space to your home. Karen Smith, a real estate agent from the National Association of Realtors, explains, “While a finished basement may seem like a luxury, it can add valuable living space to your home, increasing its market value and providing a versatile area for recreation, home office, or even guest quarters.”
Finishing your basement can increase your home’s market value and provide a versatile area for recreation, a home office, or even guest quarters. This is a great way to make the most of the space you already have.
Personal Anecdotes
My Own Experience
When we moved into our new home, we decided to invest in a smart thermostat. At first, it seemed like a small change, but it made a big difference. Our energy bills went down, and we could control the temperature from our phones. It was a simple upgrade that paid off every month.
We also decided to create a small garden in our backyard. It became a place where we could relax and enjoy the outdoors. Our friends and family loved it too, and it made our home feel more welcoming.
Conclusion
Home improvements don’t always have to be about paint and plaster. By focusing on energy efficiency, outdoor living spaces, water filtration systems, and finished basements, you can make your home more valuable and enjoyable. These unexpected upgrades can pay off in the long run, making your home a better place to live.
Remember, the best home improvements are often the ones you can’t see. So, think beyond paint and plaster and consider these unexpected upgrades for your home.
