If you are looking for ideas to increase the value of your home, whether you are looking to sell or planning for future endeavors, then look no further! Here are 8 smart ways to boost the value of your home:

1. New/updated roofing:

A new updated roof is the perfect exterior improvement to add value to your home. Roofs need to be replaced approximately every 12-25 years, dependent on the type of roof you have. Asphalt roofs tend to last less longer than a wood, rubber, or metal roof. If your roof is beginning to show signs of wear and tear such as curled edges, cracks, or missing granules, then it may be the perfect time to replace it.

2. Kitchen Remodel:

The kitchen is often the heart of the home where numerous memories and meals are made, making the choice to remodel it a no-brainer. An updated modern kitchen is the most appealing amongst homebuyers.  New flooring, countertops, updated appliances, a fresh coat of paint, or adding a backsplash will likely give you the biggest return on your investment.

3. Bathroom Remodel:

Updating a bathroom is always a plus. If a full remodel is too costly, smaller changes will suffice. You can add value by applying new paint or wallpaper, updating the lighting fixtures, creating more storage, and if possible, adding double sinks.

4. Hardwood Floor Refinishing:

Hardwood floor refinishing is a great way to give your dull and scratched floors a new look and feel. This process will save you a lot of money rather than replacing the floor altogether but be sure to use a professional to get the job done right.

5. Create Space:

If your home isn’t the largest on the market, consider adding more space to it such as an additional room or bathroom. If you are unable to add more space, try creating an open floor plan so that it will help make your home look and feel larger. Adding space to your home wherever you can is a proven way to get more value, and will help make the house flow better.

6. Conserve Energy:

Include ways to save energy around your home such as LED lighting, double-paned windows, or energy efficient appliances. If you can invest in adding solar panels to your roof for ultimate energy savings, that is certainly something to consider. Including energy efficient products will be a game changer that adds unique features most homes won’t have.

7. New Appliances/Finishes:

The easiest way to make your home have that “new” feeling without creating a bunch of new construction is to get new appliances or add new fixtures. This could be a new refrigerator, stove, or dishwasher. It could also be updating old light fixtures or changing doorknobs and handles.

8. Add Technology:

Technology is a huge hit in homes, and now there are more efficient ways to incorporate technology within your home than ever before. The top technology products used are smart cameras for security purposes, a smart thermostat for heating and cooling more effectively, and smart fire/carbon monoxide detectors.

Sometimes even the smallest changes can make some of the largest impacts on a home's character, percieved value and real value. Above all else, remember, improving your home should be fun! Once your improvement project is complete, make sure you notify your local independent insurance agent so they can make sure you have adequate coverage for the increased value in your home.