Your home is a sanctuary. It’s an escape, a place of comfort for you and your loved ones, where you can grow, feel safe, and get cozy. But it’s also an investment, and unfortunately one that is regularly affected by forces beyond your control.
Political changes in the U.S. and the U.K. in 2016 has caused some uncertainly among homeowners as prices have fluctuated due an unclear future. In particular, those residents in England have paid particular attention to the Brexit referendum and how that possible change will affect owning a home, with reports that prices could fall by as much as 35% with a no-deal Brexit. Due to this chaos, many homeowners are choosing to stay put, rather than risk the high cost of moving, which includes property fees, and the potential of finding a new place that may not yield the same investment.
Still, there are things you can do to make that investment better for work you, which also will simultaneously make your life at home comfier and more enjoyable. Here’s where you should put your time, money, and energy when renovating your home.
Energy Savers
Regardless of where you’re living, investing in energy-saving technologies and appliances is going to play out well for you in the future. Potential home buyers are will be keener on such installations, such as solar panels or insulated windows. What’s more, over time the investment will pay off itself and start saving you money as your energy costs lower. There may also be tax breaks or other incentives involved with going greener in your home, though that is dependent on your local and federal government.
Garage Addition
Surprisingly enough, the place in the home which garners the biggest profit and value increase is the garage. Adding a garage to a home may increase the value by as much as 20%, according to a recent survey done by Soak.com, which is a U.K.-based business focusing on bathroom renovations. Adding a garage provides not only a haven for cars, but more often than not a place of storage. Especially in cities where space can be limited, having a garage, which acts as a safe and secure place that may be more about keeping them accessible than being a spot of comfort, can add plenty of value for future potential homeowners.
Loft Space Conversion
Converting a loft space will also improve the value of your home. By adding an extra room that is both functional and attractive, you’re better utilizing a space and making it more appealing to both current inhabitants and future occupants. Every room should have a purpose. There is no reason not to use every space to its fullest, and loft spaces in particular have lots of potential. Take your time to get inspired and find what works best for your aesthetic and size.
Green Spaces
It’s not all about renovating and investing within the home – you have to remember the outside as well. Creating a garden or green space around the home can go a long way to improving the value. Plants, trees, and other shrubbery creates an appealing aesthetic on the outside. What’s more, it can provide benefit on the inside. Selecting certain plants to place around your home can help with insulation. Some plants may attract more heat in the summer, preventing it from getting inside when you’re trying to keep things cool, for example. Take time to find the plants that can help improve all aspects of your living situation – and ones that look pretty too.