Investing in your home doesn’t mean you have to blow through your savings. There are a number of ways to increase your home value no matter your budget. Here are a few ideas based on how much you want to spend.

Increase Your Home Value with Improvements Under $100

One hundred dollars is not a lot when you consider it can raise your property value by more than that. Here’s how to start for less:

1. Pro tips. Invite a realtor, interior designer, and home inspector over to evaluate your home. In an hour or two, they can suggest small improvements—from paint colors and furniture placement to more energy efficient ideas—that can make a big difference in the value of your home.
2. Fresh paint. It’s one of the easiest, cost-effective ways to improve the look of your home. Take the advice of a pro, or go with a neutral color palette.
3. Research for inspiration. Even if you can’t afford a design pro, there’s a world wide web full of design ideas, blogs, vision boards, and other DIY remodel and decorating tils.
4. Cut energy costs. Have your utility company audit your energy use and suggest ways to save.

Increase Your Home Value with Improvements Under $200

1. Trees and landscape. Upgrade the outdoors by planting a shady tree or improving the landscape. Make sure the tree is placed in an ideal location for its full-grown size. Design your landscaping around the local environment—providing a low-maintenance yet sustainable habitat for wildlife while adding valuable curb appeal to your home.
2. Modern updates. From a water filtration system to an alarm system, update your home with some inexpensive amenities that can help save time and money. Smart homes are also on the rise, so keep this in mind when making updates to appliances.
3. Healthy upgrades. Swap out carpets for hardwood for easier maintenance and to help eliminate hidden allergens. Also, replace older popcorn ceilings for a more modern look. Just be careful to follow safety guidelines and test for any asbestos.

Increase Your Home Value with Improvements Under $400

1. Clean from the inside, out. Think about hiring a professional cleaning service to thoroughly clean every nook and cranny of your home. Enlist the help of a lawn care service to tackle the outside.
2. Size matters. Little things can help make your home feel bigger. Go room by room and get rid of clutter, swap heavy curtains for lighter blinds. Add mirrors where appropriate.

Increase Your Home Value with Improvements Under $750

Tackle top rooms. Some of the biggest returns come from updated bathrooms and kitchens. Replace an outdated vanity, kitchen sink, or light fixtures; update old plumbinga; or add a new tile floor. Some changes are easy to do yourself, saving some cost of an extensive remodel.

General Home Improvement Tips

Before you start any updates, get the most out of your time and money by keeping a few things in mind:

• Make a list. Things that are broken, outdated, wish lists—prioritize what needs to be done first and go from there.
• Plan and budget large remodels. Updates shouldn’t happen on impulse. Know what you want, shop around, find the best help, and get it done right.
• Start slowly. Be realistic with your lists and your current financial situation. Tackle one room at a time to make the project more achievable and less likely to stall.

For more ideas on how to increase your home value, contact the specialists at Security Five for information on security systems and residential gates that can also greatly increase value and curb appeal.

---