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For most people, their home is their largest investment, so homeowners will want to see a return on this investment when planning to sell.
In addition to natural increases in market value, home value increases are typically achieved through home renovations and improvements.
But money is tight for many, and hiring expensive contractors for renovations may seem impossible at the moment. The good news is that there are many home improvements that can be done as DIY projects that will increase the value of your property without breaking the bank.
Orlando Luis, CEO of Brights Hardware, offers some top tips on DIY ways to increase the value of your home.
Smarter
Smart homes that are automated and controlled via homeowners' smart devices are a growing trend.
“It's very easy to incorporate DIY smart home features like voice-controlled assistants, smart lighting controls, and even DIY home security systems. They can be programmed to turn off, making them more environmentally friendly, saving electricity and reducing the load on the grid.”
“These upgrades not only increase convenience and energy efficiency, they also appeal to modern buyers who are increasingly seeking integrated smart home solutions.”
Improving energy efficiency
Increasing the energy efficiency of your home can increase the value of your home and save you money on municipal utility bills at the same time.
“Some DIY solutions include installing low-flow shower heads, replacing all light bulbs with LEDs, utilizing timers and smart systems to turn off lights when not in use, and installing timers on geysers. Things like wrapping it in a geyser blanket to insulate it,” Lewis says.
“Other options include replacing or adding roof insulation, painting the roof with reflective paint to keep the home cool in the summer (thereby reducing the need for air conditioning or fans), and heating equipment. This includes converting to gas and adding a water tank.Gutter system to collect rainwater.
Deploy alternative energy solutions
Load-reducing features aren't going away anytime soon. Having a home equipped to handle regular power outages will make your life easier and increase the value of your property.
Lewis advises that while there are many products and solutions on the market depending on your budget, recommended options include: In addition to installing solar-powered lighting in your garden, you can also install solar-powered spotlights for security. Install solar panels on your home to power your lights and major appliances. We will also install an inverter and battery system that can keep lights and appliances on during power outages. “Rechargeable light bulbs are also always a good idea because they switch to battery energy during load shedding.”
reveal one's inner self
South Africans are fun-loving and blessed with a wonderful climate, so much of their free time is spent outdoors. A great DIY project to expand your living space and increase the value of your property is to create an outdoor kitchen, braai or bar area.
“Incorporating features such as a gas stove for cooking, countertop space for preparing food and drinks, several storage cabinets to store glasses, plates, etc., and comfortable seating for an attractive outdoor entertaining area. please.”
build an outdoor shower
And another great idea to bring out the interior of your home while also adding functionality to your home and increasing its value is to install an outdoor shower and laundry tub in your garden.
“Using basic plumbing supplies and materials, you can create an outdoor shower where you can wash off after swimming or gardening, or cool off after a hot day. Great for washing off garden tools, dirty shoes, or even a muddy dog. It’s a space that’s suitable for both,” says Lewis.
create a vertical garden wall
Having a home that follows trends will quickly increase its value. Vertical garden walls are a great on-trend addition to any home, both indoors and outdoors, not only adding visual interest and a unique focal point, but also improving air quality.
Create DIY planters using vertical structures like pallets and trellises, or buy ready-made hanging planters to fill with a variety of plants, including succulents, herbs, and vines.
straighten the driveway
Updating your driveway can greatly improve your home's curb appeal.
“Ideas to improve this part of the site include repairing any cracks or uneven areas if the surface is concrete. Road sign paint, roof paint over old, dirty concrete or brick. , or you can use stair enamel to paint it,” says Lewis. “If your driveway has a gravel surface, you can add new gravel to make it look new again and remove any weeds that may have taken hold.”
“Adding a formal border to the edge of your driveway will make it look cleaner and more defined, and adding strategically placed decorative pots or planters will add attractive landscaping. Finish it off with solar-powered lighting along the driveway. Also consider installing an electric gate on your driveway and a picket fence or Wendy Plank fence panel at the entrance to your property. This improves security and increases the value of your home.”
Bonus tip: Highlight your home's potential
Lewis's final piece of advice is about considering your home and how to increase its value. The idea is to assess whether the property has room for another room or flatlet (think loft or garden) that can be rented out through platforms such as Airbnb. Wendy house, garage, or spare room with its own entrance).
“This is a big trend right now as people are looking for alternative sources of income, and having such a space instantly increases the value of your home. You don't necessarily have to create this space yourself, but Mentioning the opportunity to potential buyers helps them visualize what they could do if they purchased the property.”
“Upgrading your home doesn't have to be expensive or difficult, and you don't have to hire a contractor. All Brights Hardware stores have on-site experts who can help you with your next project. We offer product advice, no matter what your needs are. Our knowledgeable staff is here to help and provide you with all the insight and information you need,” Lewis concluded.