Three Smart Updates That Add the Most Value to Your Older Home
If you have an older home that’s starting to feel a little tired, you’re not alone. With rising home prices and interest rates, more people are choosing to stay put rather than deal with the hassle and cost of moving. The good news is that smart updates can completely refresh your home and add real value at the same time. Whether you’re thinking about selling someday or simply want to enjoy your home more, here are three updates that give you the best return on investment.
The kitchen is one of the smartest places to invest if you’re updating an older house. Even if you’re not planning to sell anytime soon, giving your kitchen a fresh look can make your whole home feel new again. A minor kitchen remodel can return about 85 percent of what you spend, which makes it one of the best values in home updates. Simple changes like painting your cabinets, updating the hardware and swapping out old light fixtures can go a long way. The average cost for this type of update is $25,000.
If you’re ready for a bigger transformation that includes replacing cabinets, updating appliances and improving the layout will take your kitchen to the next level. For this kitchen project, the clients were really considering moving. They even had someone who wanted to buy their home, but they had a beautiful lot and it was almost impossible to duplicate somewhere else. So, we remodeled and the result made them fall in love with her home all over again.
Bathrooms are another space that can make a big impact when updating an older home. They’re used every day and tend to show their age quickly, especially with outdated tile and worn fixtures. A midrange bathroom remodel typically returns about 66 percent of its cost, making it a smart place to invest. Small updates like replacing faucets, adding new mirrors and updating lighting can make a bathroom feel more current. For a bigger transformation, you might consider new tile, custom cabinetry and updated plumbing fixtures. A full bathroom remodel can range from $25,000 to $50,000 depending on the size and finishes you choose.
This bathroom was one of two we designed for these clients. A few years ago, they tried to update it by replacing the tub with one of those “Bathroom Fitter” makeovers and were unhappy with how it turned out.
If you’ve been thinking about remodeling your own bathroom but aren’t sure where to start, my Bathroom Remodeling Course can help. It’s designed to guide you through the entire process, from planning your budget to making design decisions with confidence. Whether you’re handling it yourself or working with a contractor, the course gives you the tools to manage your project smoothly and avoid common mistakes. Totally worth the $59.00 investment!
One of the simplest ways to breathe new life into an older home is by updating the lighting. Old fixtures can make even a well-kept space feel dated and dreary. Swapping in new light fixtures is a relatively affordable update, with costs starting around $100 to $500 per fixture if you DIY. If your budget allows, LED recessed lighting can really brighten things up, just use a dimmer and a setting that isn’t too bright. If you’re not sure where to start, I offer virtual lighting consultations to help you choose the right fixtures for your home and your budget.
Updating an older home doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. By focusing on these smart updates, you can add real value while creating a space that feels fresh and inviting for years to come. Whether you’re planning a full remodel or just looking to make a few changes, every step you take brings new life to your home. And remember, I’m here to help with advice and services designed to make the process easier. Your home has so much potentialand I’d love to help you make the most of it.