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Every year, Remodeling Magazine releases their Cost vs. Value Report, an in-depth look at the return on investment (ROI) that common remodeling projects get across the county. This year was no different. When the 2019 Cost vs. Value Report came out, we knew that we had to share it with you. Below are the remodeling projects that topped this year’s report with the best ROI, as well as some of our tips on how to best design these spaces. Read them over to see which projects will be at the top of your list this year.

In 2019, backyard patios have the best ROI. Image: Artazum/Shutterstock

1. Backyard patio

Even though it’s still wintertime, that didn’t stop outdoor additions from topping Remodeling’s list — and we can see why. After all, who wouldn’t want a backyard oasis, somewhere they can go to totally escape from the pressures of day-to-day life? If you take the time to invest in your backyard patio, it will do all that for you and more.

Creating the perfect patio is all about infusing a sense of intimacy and relaxation into the space. You can do that by making sure to include a central focal point, much like the firepit shown above. If firepits aren’t your thing, consider using an outdoor area rug to ground the space. Then, be sure to include lots of comfy seating to round it out.

Adding a bathroom will add value to your home. Image: Artazum/Shutterstock

2. Bathroom addition

If you’ve been thinking of adding an extra bathroom for a while, now may be the time to take the plunge. According to this year’s Cost vs. Value Report, a whopping 60.6 percent of the total project cost of adding a bathroom was recouped in the increase to the home’s value.

When you’re adding another bathroom into the mix, your biggest consideration should be the layout. Since you’re building this room from scratch, you should have more freedom to design it as you see fit. Make sure you plan the layout around the number of people who will be using the bathroom on a daily basis and allow enough room for safe movement.

You can also freshen up your bathroom with a remodel. Image: ImageFlow/Shutterstock

3. Bathroom remodel

However, you don’t have to spend the cash to add an entirely new bathroom to see some benefit to freshening up your lavatories. A simpler bathroom remodel came in just behind the bathroom addition, recouping either 67.2 or 60.2 percent of the cost, depending on whether it was a mid-range or upscale remodel.

When you’re focusing on a bathroom remodel, the vanity should be your first point of action. A modernized vanity can bring a whole new look to the space. Beyond that, replacing fixtures is also a fast fix, as is replacing and refreshing your accessories, such as wall art, bath mats or hand towels.

If you’ve been thinking of adding a deck, now may be the time to do it. Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

4. Deck addition

Similar to the backyard patio that took first place, deck additions are experiencing a surge in popularity this year. Decks made of composite materials, in particular, have piqued homeowners’ interests. Decks made of wood are not far behind, though, taking up the following spot on the list.

Surprisingly, these days, setting up a deck is a lot like setting up an open concept living and dining space. You want to provide plenty of seating for people to gather. Don’t forget the accessories, either. The combination of outdoor rugs, outdoor throw pillows and plants is enough to create a cozy space where everyone will want to hang out.

Warm up the entry to your home with a new front door. Image: David Papazian/Shutterstock

5. Entry door replacement

Though it may seem like almost an afterthought, your front door makes a statement. Breathe some new life into your entry and front yard by replacing your door with a new one. Alternatively, if that’s too big of an expense, consider giving your old door a fresh look with a new coat of paint.

When decorating your entryway, all the standard rules of curb appeal apply. Complement your front door by adding a new welcome mat, some fresh house numbers and some plants. If you need inspiration, check out this post on eye-catching front doors to help you start thinking about what type of door might look good with your home.

The post These Are The Home Improvements With The Best ROI In 2019 appeared first on Freshome.com.

When it comes time to prepare your home for sale, you want to ensure it’s in the best possible shape by the time you show it. This way, when a potential buyer asks about the property’s condition, they know it is ready to be sold without much work left to be done.

After all, most buyers would prefer not to have to deal with any functional issues before they move in. Before showing your home, consider making these small repairs, as they can make a big difference both in terms of interest levels and offer prices.

Consider applying a new coat of paint. Image: Photographee.eu/Shutterstock

Applying New Paint

Nearly any reputable realtor will suggest that you give your home a fresh coat of paint before showing it, provided you have not already done so very recently. At the very least, you should paint the interior in a neutral color that will make the space seem larger. If you have the time and it has been a while, you should also consider new paint for the exterior. A simple coat of paint makes everything look newer and as if it is in better shape.

Update your flooring to hardwood. Image: Breadmaker/Shutterstock

Making flooring fixes

Depending on the flooring currently in your home and its condition, you should also make any small repairs to this part of the house. Flooring replacements and repairs can be inexpensive when you choose the right material. Even a slightly more expensive flooring replacement can be worth it if you have shag carpeting or something else no buyer will want.

At the moment, most buyers prefer hardwood floors, so if you have this type of floor under your carpeting, a relatively low-cost removal of the carpet can dramatically boost your home’s appeal. If you have ceramic flooring, replace or clean the grout and replace any cracked or chipped tiles. As a general rule, don’t bother installing ceramic flooring in a home before showing it, since it is expensive. The only exception would be a bathroom or entryway that previously had carpeting.

Think about resurfacing cabinets. Image: KUPRYNENKO ANDRII/ Shutterstock

Resurfacing kitchen cabinets and sinks

The average kitchen remodel will give you almost a complete return on your investment in terms of asking price, but this holds true more for mid-range and minor remodels than it does for high-end kitchens. One thing that will almost always be worth it, however, is resurfacing your cabinets. This is something you may be able to do yourself. You can liven up old cabinets, which will make them look less dated. While you are at it, consider replacing the handles on your cabinets, as well.

This is also the time to make small repairs to the sink and countertop, such as caulking your sink. Just giving your sink a deep clean may be enough to improve your home’s appearance. Your real estate agent may suggest some other minor repairs to the countertops, backsplash or sink.

Freshen up bathrooms. Image: ArchiVIZ/Shutterstock

Cleaning or replacing bathroom fixtures

Your home needs to be sparkling clean when you show it, so do your best to get your shower doors and any glass fixtures in the bathroom completely clean. If this is not possible, go ahead and replace them. There may, for example, be lime deposits that have etched the glass past the point of repair. You may also need to refinish your tub if there are stains.

There are also some other minor repairs to make in your bathroom before showing your home. If you have carpeting in your bathroom, you definitely want to replace it with tile, as you will be hard-pressed to find a buyer who thinks this is a nice feature. You will also generally get your money back for small repairs such as new fixtures, lights and floors, all of which help make your bathroom shine during the showings. Also, don’t forget to repaint the bathroom walls, preferably in a light color as this makes the space seem larger.

Don’t forget curb appeal. Image: rSnapshotPhotos/ Shutterstock

Boosting curb appeal

Before showing your home, take the time to boost the property’s curb appeal with minor repairs, as this will bring in more interested buyers. If there are any cracks in your sidewalk or driveway, patch them up. If you have an asphalt driveway, take the time to resurface it. In the case of fences, make any necessary repairs on them and give them a fresh coat of paint. You will also want to do some minor landscaping, such as trimming back dead branches and planting flowers.

Remember that a boost to your curb appeal will make it more likely that someone will take a look at your home. Buyers will also be attracted to the ability to get a perfect picture in front of their new home without having to do extensive landscaping themselves.

The post Getting Ready To Sell? These 5 Small Repairs Make A Big Difference When Showing Your Home appeared first on Freshome.com.