With more time spent at home this year, you have probably heard the whirl and roar of power tools in action throughout your neighborhood. Google reports that “home-improvement” searches have increased by almost 50 percent during 2020. Thinking of making improvements to your home? Spend your money wisely. It is always a good idea to consider re-sale value with home projects. Read below what features home buyers desire the most:

Laundry Rooms
A separate laundry room tops the National Association of Home Builders’ (NAHB) list of wanted features. If you lack a first-floor space for a laundry room, the lower level (or basement) is the place for this room. Many times all of the utility lines are already in place in the basement. And, if there is unfinished space, there will be no costs to demolish. A basement laundry room will probably start around $1,000. If you plan on installing the washer and dryer on an upper floor, the costs start around $10,000.

Efficient Windows and Appliances
Energy-Star rated windows and appliances are what home buyers want to keep utility costs down. Efficient windows can lower costs by 12 percent. Appliances can save owners even more. For example, an efficient washing machine can save $45 a year. If you replace your windows or appliances now you will personally benefit from these savings!

Patio or Deck (Outdoor Spaces)
Creating more living space outdoors is a must when luring potential home buyers. Everything from a large patio, fire pit to an outdoor kitchen – buyers will be drawn to these details at your home. (Deck construction has risen by 275% in the U.S. in 2020)

Ceiling Fans
Per NAHB, 85% of home buyers desire ceiling fans. These devices help lower cooling costs during warmer months. Fans are recommended for ceilings at least eight-feet tall and work best when hung 10–12 inches from the ceiling.

Garage Storage
Maintain the clutter in your garage. By adding storage units and shelves you will make your home even more inviting to buyers. Think about adding racks to store bicycles, rakes and shovels. You will revel in how organized you are! (And so will buyers when it’s time to sell.)

Outside Lighting
Exterior lighting is what adds ambiance to your home. Think spotlights, walkway lights and pendant lighting. It will be a joy to come home in the evening and your neighbors will admire the lighting, too!

Walk-In Pantry
A large pantry allows you to store canned goods and other essentials near kitchen food-prep areas. Pantries should be located in a cool and dry area. The most common size for a pantry is 5’x5′.

Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floors are easy to maintain and are more durable than carpet. They create a clean look for your home and are a very desirable item by home buyers.

Master Bedroom Walk-In Closet
A walk-in closet ranks among the top five features for home buyers. Older homes usually have the most challenges with this type of closet space. If your home does not have a large closet, think about either adding a closet to the room, reconfigure an existing closet or convert a spare bedroom into closet space.

Eat-in Kitchen
Eat-in style kitchens are desired by those who want to gather together for breakfast or an evening meal. To create space for a table and chairs, you may need to knock out a wall. If that is not an option, consider adding bar stools at a kitchen island.

Double Kitchen Sink
Buyers want a sink divided for washing and food prep! This is a relatively easy project to accomplish.

Updated Kitchen and Baths
If you are going to update a few things in your home consider your kitchen and bathrooms. The kitchen is now considered to be the “hang out” room. Make it as large and open as possible. And, remember, home buyers still want stainless-steel appliances. Updated bathrooms will definitely draw the attention of potential buyers. Need some inspiration? Go here and look at some awesome kitchens and baths. On a a budget? Read about these budget-friendly updates for these rooms.

Home Office
More people are now working from their homes. Having a flexible space like a home office will be appealing when it comes time to sell. If there is no room in your home for a formal office, consider creating a hide-away office that is part of a spare bedroom or located in a closet.

Need help with your home project? Contact Sibcy Cline Home Services. They can put you in touch with an experienced local, vetted vendor!