How to Increase the Value of Your Property

In a competitive real estate market, making your property stand out is key to maximizing its value. Improving your property doesn’t require a complete overhaul—often, strategic updates and targeted enhancements can yield significant results. Here, we’ll discuss various ways to increase your property’s value, starting with curb appeal, moving into interior updates, and then focusing on efficiency and maintenance.

1. Enhance Curb Appeal

Curb appeal is your property’s first impression, and it plays a vital role in capturing buyers’ attention. A well-maintained exterior can increase a home’s value by as much as 7-14%. Here’s how to elevate your home’s curb appeal:

• Professional Landscaping with Mature Plantings: Invest in landscaping that complements the home’s style and architecture. Mature trees, shrubs, and flower beds can instantly enhance appeal. Consider drought-resistant plants, which add beauty and require minimal maintenance.

• Fresh Exterior Paint: A fresh coat of paint can work wonders. Neutral, timeless colors tend to have a broader appeal. It’s important to choose colors that blend with the neighborhood’s aesthetic while offering a subtle distinction.

• Updated Front Door: The front door is a focal point, and upgrading it can boost perceived value. Choose a door with modern materials and styles, such as steel or fiberglass, or go for a pop of color that complements the exterior.

• Clean Driveway and Walkways: Power wash your driveway, walkways, and sidewalks to remove stains, dirt, and debris. A clean and inviting path leading to the entrance can make a lasting impression.

2. Interior Updates

Interior updates are often the biggest factors influencing buyers’ decisions. Focus on spaces with high returns on investment, like kitchens and bathrooms.

• Kitchen Remodel: A kitchen remodel consistently ranks as one of the most valuable home improvements. Consider updating cabinets, installing a backsplash, and adding energy-efficient stainless steel appliances. Quartz or granite countertops are durable, attractive, and have a broad appeal.

• Bathroom Modernization: Bathrooms should be clean, fresh, and updated. Popular improvements include new vanities, lighting, and tile work. Double vanities, walk-in showers, and freestanding tubs are particularly attractive.

• Finished Basement: A finished basement provides additional usable square footage and can function as a guest suite, home office, or entertainment area. Ensure that the space feels welcoming with adequate lighting, clean flooring, and finished walls. Which is not always an option in Oklahoma.

• Adding Extra Living Space: Adding a deck, patio, or sunroom can create additional living space and add to the home’s appeal. Outdoor living spaces, especially decks, are highly desirable, offering both functional and aesthetic value.

3. Energy Efficiency Improvements

Energy-efficient homes are increasingly popular among buyers. Making your property more efficient can reduce utility costs, lower environmental impact, and appeal to a broader range of buyers.

• Insulation Upgrades: Proper insulation in walls, attics, and basements can reduce heating and cooling costs. Many buyers appreciate the added comfort and energy savings that come with a well-insulated home.

• Smart Thermostats: Adding a smart thermostat can allow for greater control over home temperature and energy use, potentially saving on utility bills. This small upgrade is also appealing to tech-savvy buyers.

• LED Lighting: Replacing old incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED lighting can reduce energy consumption and provide a modern look. LED lights also last longer, which reduces the frequency of bulb replacements.

4. Maintenance and Presentation

A clean, well-maintained home signals to potential buyers that the property has been cared for, which can help build trust and influence their decision positively.

• Decluttering and Professional Organizing: A clutter-free space looks larger, more inviting, and easier for potential buyers to envision as their own. Remove personal items and unnecessary furniture to showcase each room’s potential.

• Thorough Cleaning: A deep clean is essential before putting your property on the market. Pay special attention to kitchens, bathrooms, floors, windows, and surfaces.

• Address Repairs or Maintenance Issues: Address any maintenance issues, big or small, before listing. Fixing leaky faucets, cracked tiles, or loose door handles is important, as even small issues can suggest poor upkeep.

5. Consider Local Market Trends

Not all property enhancements yield the same return on investment in every market. To maximize your renovation efforts, research local market trends to determine which features are most desirable.

• Research What Features Are Most Valued in Your Area: Research can help identify whether your target market values outdoor living spaces, modern kitchens, energy-efficient features, or home office setups. For example, if you live in a suburban area where families are moving, a finished basement or backyard might hold more value than in other areas. In Oklahoma, storm shelters are a great way to increase your home value and add an important safety feature.

• Consult a Real Estate Agent for Local Advice: Real estate agents bring knowledge of local markets and can guide you on which improvements will likely bring the highest return. They can also provide insight into the ideal timing for renovations or listing your property.

Conclusion

Increasing the value of your property is a process that requires strategic investments and thoughtful updates. If you’re planning to sell your Oklahoma City home, understanding these trends can help you highlight your property’s best features and attract buyers who value style, functionality, and sustainability, all while embracing Oklahoma’s unique culture.

Working with a local real estate expert (like me 👋 at Susan at Lime) ensures your home stands out in the market, sells faster, and for the best possible price.