Page 6 - 63rd Annual Home Show

6H HOME SHOW • ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT TO THE ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE • FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2015
Add value to your home with these renovations
homeSTYLE Hot stuff
ADVERTISING FEATURES
Homeowners choose renovation projects for a variety of reasons. Although many im- provements are made to increase the func- tionality and comfort of a home, several oth- ers are seen as worthwhile investments. These investments can add up to a higher resale value when the time comes to sell a home.
Certain projects have a history of providing a greater return on homeowners’ investments than others. The following renovation tips can add beauty to your home and generate great returns when you decide to sell the home.
INVEST IN YOUR KITCHEN
Kitchen remodels are a safe bet when it comes to putting money into improving a home. Residents tend to spend a great deal of time in the kitchen, but a dated, poorly functioning kitchen can detract from the value of a home, even if the rest of the home is in good shape. It’s possible to recoup between 60 and 120 percent of your kitchen-remodel investment, especially if the kitchen matches up well with the rest of the home. Homeown- ers should know that a deluxe renovation may not be necessary, as relatively moderate im- provements can create a whole new look for a kitchen.
LOOK TO PAINT
One of the least-expensive improvement materials, but one that has a significant im- pact, is paint. Neutral, modern colors can easily liven up any space. If you paint with low-VOC paint, you also can advertise an eco-friendly home, which is very desirable these days.
PUT IN ANOTHER BATHROOM
Multiple bathrooms are an attractive selling point, particularly in older homes that may not have been equipped with more than one bathroom. Finding extra space for a bathroom can be tricky, but consider closets, areas un- der stairs or even taking some space away from another room. Popular home-improve- ment television channel HGTV advises that half-bathrooms require at least 18 square feet of space, while full baths need 30 to 35 square feet for a stand-up shower or bathtub.
RENOVATE THE HVAC SYSTEM
Aesthetic improvements aren’t the only ones that add value to a home. Many home- buyers are eager to purchase a home that has a new heating and cooling system, as buyers understand that furnaces and air-condition- ing units are substantial investments that can
The Napoleon’s Prestige series of gourmet grills is designed with the serious backyard chef in mind. With features like the infrared Sizzle Zone and plenty of space for dozens of hamburgers, this grill is one of the top-rated grills in the industry.
TO BUY: Congo Fireplace and Patio, Benton
Finding space to install an extra bathroom in a home can be a worthwhile investment.
last for years. Other improvements, such as adding attic insulation or replacing older win- dows and doors with more energy-efficient options, are also smart bets.
ADD ILLUMINATION TO ROOMS
A dark home is a dreary home. Adding light can mean including more overhead and ac- cent lighting. Under-cabinet task lighting is a nice touch. Inclusion of skylights and sun tubes can bring natural light into rooms that may not have south- or west-facing windows.
PUT A DECK ADDITION OUTDOORS
Outdoor living spaces have become more desirable, especially as the “staycation” has grown in popularity. Decks and patios can make backyards more appealing. The scope of your investment will depend on the size of the deck and its design. Doing the work yourself can cut the cost of decks in half, but only if you have the specific tools or experience to tackle such a project.
IMPROVE CURB APPEAL
Adding attractive landscaping and freshen- ing up the entryway to your home can add considerable value to it, as buyers judge homes by their exteriors. Completely reno- vated interiors may never be seen if buyers pass up your home because of a less-attractive exterior. Classy, subtle changes, such as well- placed shrubbery and a green lawn, can work wonders. An inviting front door and a well-lit entryway also add curb appeal to a home.
— Courtesy of Metro Creative Services
Window of opportunity
Installing top-quality insulated replacement windows not only improves a home’s curb appeal but also provides savings on utility bills. Vinyl replacement windows by Vista are available in a variety of styles and sizes to complement any room. Vista’s premium window hardware and colors allow homeowners to create the look they want.
TO BUY: LeafGuard of Arkansas, Little Rock
Protection from the elements
RainPro gutter systems allow for maximum water flow, providing protection without looking bulky and spoiling the beauty of a home. The seamless
gutters are custom formed and cut to exact dimensions on-site to ensure a perfect fit. RainPro gutter systems come in a wide range of designer colors to complement any design and any home.
TO BUY: LeafGuard of Arkansas, Little Rock
Serene setting
Sumi-e glass tile from Lunada Bay is created with a handmade process designed to capture light and enhance the final beauty of the project.
TO BUY: Inside Effects/Outside Effects, Little Rock
Let the sun shine
Enjoy your sunroom year-round. An economical addition to your home, sunrooms can be designed to your specification to include heat and air, as well as energy-efficient windows. Choose between vinyl, glass, aluminum or custom materials.
TO BUY: S & S Home Improvement of Arkansas, Little Rock