Winter Upgrades That Add Value to Your Home

You want to protect your home as the weather starts to get colder. Making upgrades will also allow your house to stand out when you decide to sell. Here are five winter updates that can improve your property's value. 

1. Seal Your Windows and Doors 

Cold air can enter through small openings or gaps, leading to drafts and increasing your energy bills. Use weatherstripping or caulk to fill in the cracks. You also want to check your window panes and replace any loose or missing pieces. Sealing leaks can also reduce noise and prevent dust from entering your home. 

Along with sealing your windows, upgrade to energy-efficient casements. These can provide energy savings and increase resale value. In fact, a vinyl window replacement has a return value of 73.4%. Also, upgrade to a more durable entryway material, such as steel. Adding fresh paint or a decorative door knob can also increase its visual appeal. 

2. Install a Smart Thermostat

You want your house to feel nice and cozy as the temperature drops. A programmable thermostat will learn your preferences and adjust accordingly. It can also save energy by turning it off when you leave the house. Plus, you can easily control it through your smartphone and save money on your heating and cooling bills.

3. Add Insulation

Insulation can keep your home warm in the winter and reduce monthly expenses. Be sure to insulate your attic, walls, basements and crawl spaces. Start with the floor when insulating your attic, as you will need to pull it up and add a new layer on top. 

You have a few different options when it comes to materials. Loose-fill insulation works best for attics with irregular joist spacing. If your room is standard and has sufficient headroom, batts are best.

It’s vital to insulate your garage as well because it can increase your garage door's durability and energy savings. You can recoup 74% of the cost of a new garage door when you sell. Fiberglass insulation is commonly used because it is affordable and easy to place. 

4. Update Your Kitchen

Kitchens are one of the first things buyers look at in a new home. Even a minor upgrade can have a return on investment (ROI) of 81.1%. Consider installing new countertops. Granite and marble are popular choices due to their durability and elegant look, but these are more expensive than other options. If you're on a budget, laminate or ceramic tile are good alternatives.

You may also want to replace any outdated cabinetry. You can repaint or replace the hardware to save money. Consider stainless steel knobs to add a modern look. 

 Here are some more updates you can make to your kitchen:

 ●      Add hardwood floors

●      Update your lighting

●      Buy energy-efficient appliances 

●      Add a tile backsplash

●      Repaint the walls 

5. Upgrade Your Bathroom 

The bathroom is one of the most popular renovation projects, and an upgrade can have a 52.8% ROI. Focus on function first by installing new flooring, toilet and fixtures. Then you can add more modern accessories, like a freestanding tub. Also, most homeowners like the master bedroom to have an ensuite, so consider connecting these two spaces. 

Ways to Increase Your Home's Value

Winter is a perfect time to update your home. Improving energy efficiency and freshening up spaces can increase resale value. Try some of these renovations to make your home an appealing haven this winter.

Guest Contributor: Rose Morrison