The general consensus among real estate experts is, when doing any Gulf Shores home remodeling, curb appeal is crucial.
Deciding what Gulf Shores home remodeling projects to undertake can be a difficult decision for homeowners.
Most Cost Effective Gulf Shores Home Remodeling Projects
Eight of the top 10 most cost-effective projects nationally, in terms of value recouped, are exterior projects. A wood deck addition came in second with an estimated 87.4 percent of costs recouped upon resale. Two different siding replacement projects also landed in the top 10, including fiber-cement siding, expected to return 87 percent of costs, and vinyl siding, expected to return 78.2 percent of costs.
Out of the top 10 projects, the fiber-cement siding replacement project improved the most since last year, with costs recouped increasing by more than 15 percent. Two garage door replacements were also in the top 10; a mid-range garage door replacement is expected to return 83.7 percent while an upscale garage door replacement follows closely at 82.9 percent of costs recouped.
Rounding out the top exterior Gulf Shores home remodeling projects were two window replacements; a wood window replacement is estimated to recoup 79.3 percent of costs and a vinyl window replacement is estimated to recoup 78.7 percent of costs.
Every neighborhood is different and the desirability and resale value of a particular remodeling project varies by region and metro area. Before undertaking a remodeling project, homeowners should consult a Realtor as they are the best resource when deciding what projects will provide the most return upon resale. Real estate professionals have a unique understanding of local markets, home features and buyer preferences and know that there are a variety of factors that affect a home's value, such as location, condition of surrounding properties and regional economic climate.
Here is a list of Gulf Shores home remodeling projects that continually deliver value for dollars invested:
Infrastructure. Functional upgrades, such as heating systems, plumbing, and sewage disposal, are crucial if you want to attract buyers.
Exterior Improvements. Things like siding, windows, and garage doors can add tremendous value.
Adding a Bedroom. If you have unfinished space in your attic or basement, you can create another bedroom with relative ease.
Upgrade The Kitchen. Kitchens are truly the heart of the modern home. If you are planning on an entire kitchen remodel, work with a kitchen designer who can help you maximize your space. Homeowners on a tight budget can still boost their home's value by investing in upgraded flooring, paint, and new light fixtures.
Create an Extra Bathroom. If you simply don't have the space to squeeze an additional bath into your existing space, put your renovation dollars to work in your existing bathrooms. Change out tired, outdated fixtures for more modern finishes. Replace old toilets and shower doors. Even fresh paint and updated flooring can make an old bathroom look brand new.
Extra Storage. Most people want a lot of storage. If your home is short on storage space, consider a professional closet system or organization solution. This is especially true if you have a garage.
Adding Square Footage. Although an addition is out of reach for many people considering Gulf Shores home remodeling, it is one that provides a large return on your investment. If your home is very small, adding more square feet might be the only way to appeal to certain demographics of buyers.
Curb Appeal. Curb appeal is just as important as the stuff inside. Keep your lawn trimmed, neat, and green. If you can afford it, add some decorative items, such as privacy trees, shrubs, and flowers.
To get more tips on Gulf Shores home remodeling and improvements and ways to save money by doing-it-yourself, check out our other articles by clicking on the Gulf Shores Home Improvements link to your right under Gulf Shores Real Estate Categories.