Real Estate

Whether you’re looking to build equity or maximize your home’s sale price, making thoughtful improvements to your home can significantly boost its value. While some factors like location and the Tomball and Northwest Houston real estate market may be beyond your control, keeping up with maintenance and investing in strategic upgrades can make a big difference. Here are six ways to add value to your home:

1. Boost Curb Appeal

First impressions matter, and your home’s curb appeal is your chance to shine. A well-maintained and attractive exterior not only enhances your home’s appearance but also attracts potential buyers searching for homes in the Tomball or greater Northwest Houston area if you’re considering selling your home soon.  Start with the basics, like regular landscaping and adding low-maintenance plants or flowers.

For a bigger impact, consider replacing outdated exterior features like doors, siding, or even your garage door. According to Zonda Media’s Remodeling 2024 Cost vs. Value Report, replacing a garage door delivers an impressive 194% return on investment on average nationwide.

Hiring a remodeling contractor or Houston area renovation expert can ensure your exterior upgrades are completed professionally and efficiently.

2. Upgrade the Interior

Kitchens and bathrooms are high-impact areas for boosting value, especially in the competitive Houston real estate market. Surprisingly, modest updates often deliver better returns than luxury overhauls according to the Remodeling 2024 Cost vs. Value Report.

• Kitchen Upgrades: A minor kitchen remodel, such as updating appliances or refinishing cabinets, recoups about 96% of its cost. In contrast, a high-end remodel with custom finishes and commercial-grade appliances may only recover 38%.
• Bathroom Updates: Midrange bathroom renovations, like replacing fixtures or flooring, yield a 74% return on average, while luxury remodels recover just 45%.

For homeowners considering remodeling, look for general contractors in your area who understand both your vision and the local market trends.

3. Add Square Footage

Bigger homes often command higher prices in the Tomball and greater Northwest Houston area, as price per square foot is a key factor for buyers. Adding a room—like a bedroom, office, or finishing out a bonus space—can make your home more competitive in the market.

Even small expansions, such as finishing a basement or converting an attic, can make a big impact without the need for a full-scale addition.  Partnering with a Houston general contractor experienced in-room additions ensures that your project meets your needs and will bring a good return on your investment.

4. Improve Efficiency

Energy-efficient upgrades not only lower utility bills but also make your home more appealing to buyers in the Tomball and Houston area. Features like energy-efficient windows, doors, and siding are increasingly important to today’s homeowners, according to a 2023 survey by the National Association of Realtors.

Other upgrades to consider:

• Enhanced attic insulation
• LED lighting
• Energy-efficient appliances

These improvements are relatively affordable and add both immediate and long-term value.  Collaborate with a Houston remodeling contractor to identify affordable upgrades that align with both your budget and market trends.

5. Prioritize Low-Maintenance Features

Busy homeowners and modern home buyers alike value updates that reduce the time and effort needed to maintain their homes. Replace high-maintenance materials, such as carpets or wood siding, with more durable and easy-to-care-for options like luxury vinyl flooring, hardwood floors or vinyl siding.

For expert advice and installation, consult a Tomball home improvement contractor or Houston area remodeling professional.  Low-maintenance homes are more attractive to buyers and can set your property apart.

6. Add Smart-Home Features

Smart technology is an increasingly popular way to enhance convenience and safety in a home and is becoming a must-have for homeowners in the Houston area. Devices like smart thermostats, security cameras, door locks, and fire detectors are affordable (often costing $1,000 or less to install yourself) and add modern appeal to your property.

While these features don’t always translate directly to higher home value, they can make your home more desirable to potential buyers in the Houston real estate market.

Work with Local Experts

When it comes to maximizing your home’s value, having the right team on your side makes all the difference. The Herring Home Team is your go-to full-service team for both real estate and home remodeling in the greater Northwest Houston, Tomball, Spring, Magnolia, Montgomery and Waller areas. Monica Herring, a Realtor® with RE/MAX Elite Properties in Tomball, specializes in helping homeowners buy and sell with confidence, while Cody Herring, a general contractor with Herring Home Services, provides expert remodeling, building, and renovation services.

Whether you’re preparing to list your home or looking to update and personalize your space, the Herring Home Team combines real estate expertise with high-quality construction services to meet all your needs. Contact us today to learn how we can help you boost your home’s value and achieve your goals!