Spring updating is in the air
The snow is nearly behind us in Boulder Colorado and now is the time to think on the spring updating you can do to position your home for the future. Best to consider some of the following as updates to make your home more comfortable and better prepared for the day when you sell.
- Replace windows: This can be a big expense of course, but it is also a great place to consider making a major improvement. Owners tend to see more than 71% of the funds invested in windows return when selling a house. Why suffer with outdated or poorly performing windows? Enjoy lower utility expenses, better light and better curb appeal with new windows. Good Spring updating tip.
- Install a new HVAC system – technology has vastly improved. New furnace systems are better than ninety percent efficient. A new system can save you money and do a better job of heating your home. Plus, over time, heat exchangers can crack in an older furnace. This in turn can allow carbon monoxide into your home. Don’t wait until you have to replace the furnace; be proactive and enjoy lower bills and better quality.
- Clean your Air Conditioner. I know – it just sits outside and always works. All the same, cleaning your AC can lower your electric costs and extend the life of the system. Along the same lines, be sure to replace the filters in your furnace several times a year. Dirty filters can cause your heating costs to increase due to poor air circulation keeping spaces cold and fooling owners into turning up the heat.
- Install more insulation during Spring updating or even in The Fall. Energy audits are a great step towards knowing where your home is losing money – why heat or cool the outdoors? Additional insulation is a low cost way to improve the comfort of your home and save money. For even greater enjoyment of your living space, consider adding a heated floor in the bathroom. Like insulation, your space will feel more comfortable and your heating costs will drop.
- Switching out appliances is good for the environment and you. New appliances carry Energy Star ratings, are quieter in operation and use safer materials to operate (modern refrigerators compared with the almond/olive green units). Why wait for a failure? Buyers tend to notice quality appliances, so in addition to operating better, upgraded appliances can affect the bottom line when you are ready to sell.
- Gutters, downspouts and your roof. Updating gutters, or at least annual cleaning, is smart. Poor quality gutters risk water issues near the foundation. Don’t take that risk, act ahead of time. The cost of improving the gutters is miniscule when compared to repairing foundation issues brought on by water.
- Paint is a smart investment. Curb appeal is a serious concern for buyers, so keep your house shining in the eyes of potential home buyers. Updated paint has the strong impact of keeping your house in prime condition. Sun worn or water logged houses can incur damage. Don’t wait for a problem, act ahead of time and enjoy seeing your beautiful home every day as your arrive home.
- Mulch plantings – usually a Fall activity, this is a good time of year to mulch anything you used to keep your plants insulated during the winter months. Use the mulch on your garden.
- Replace light bulbs. Older incandescent bulbs use a great deal o electricity compared with modern day LED bulbs. Enjoy bright light and lowered bills. And when you sell your house, bright bulbs make a big impression on buyers.
