Which renovations make the most financial sense? If you're like most homeowners, you've probably agonized over this question at least once -- or a dozen times. In a tight real estate market, it's essential to get the most bang for your buck.
While a new swimming pool, a sunroom or a swanky home office may sound great in theory, in real life these renovations just don't recoup your investments like an exterior remodel can. And when it comes to exterior remodeling Northern Virginia and Maryland residents should move curbside renovations to the top of their to-do list. After all, your home's exterior is the first thing that potential buyers see -- and renovations that improve curb appeal, like Virginia and Maryland custom exterior doors, windows and siding can have a huge impact on your home's selling price.
1. First Impressions Matter
Though the old adage "don't judge a book by its cover" may be true when it comes to books or people, it doesn't hold quite the same weight when it comes to houses. Think of it this way: If you were going to a job interview, would you wear your best business clothes, or a sloppy old sweatshirt and worn-out jeans? You'd probably leave the weekend clothes in the closet and dress up in your best duds in hopes of landing that dream job.
House hunting isn't much different, except that house hunters play the role of the interviewer. If their potential home looks ill-kept and poorly maintained from the outside, they're much less likely to want to give the inside a second look. No matter how many interior upgrades you've completed, it won't matter if that all-important curb appeal isn't enough to get potential buyers through the door in the first place.
2. Come On In
Speaking of first impressions, one of the best ways to make a good one is through your front door. This all-important piece of real estate will be seen by every potential buyer, so why not make it spectacular? Installing Virginia and Maryland custom exterior doors shows that not only do you care enough about your home to keep it well-maintained, but that you've got good taste, too. That way, house hunters' interest will be piqued, encouraging them to walk across the threshold and explore the rest of your home.
In fact, a 2013 study by "Remodel" magazine found that entry door replacements recouped more than 86% of cost, making them one of the most cost-effective exterior remodeling Northern Virginia projects. And don't forget about those patio doors Northern Virginia and Maryland homeowners; a fresh, sparkling set will improve your home's look and functionality.
3. Outside Matters
When it comes to curb appeal, siding is key. When choosing siding Maryland and Virginia home owners should consider the fact that they're likely to recoup most of the cost, all while speeding up the sale of the home. "Remodeling" magazine found that siding replacements recouped more than 72 percent of the cost, making siding Maryland a sound investment.
4. Clear as Glass
And don't forget replacement windows, Northern Virginia and Southern Maryland homeowners. Clear, sparkling, and trendy windows don't just enhance your home's curb appeal -- and salability -- they're also more efficient and recoup more than 73 percent of their cost, making replacement windows a smart investment.
So don't be penny-wise and pound-foolish. When it comes time to sell your home, invest in the exterior remodeling Northern Virginia projects that will recoup the most value and get your house sold the fastest.
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