As a real estate professional, I’m often asked about which home improvements actually pay off. While I love to discuss ROI statistics with clients, today I’m sharing something more personal: my own home transformation journey after 6 years of living with builder-grade finishes.
The Foundation: Fresh Paint Makes All the Difference
After years of living with the original builder’s paint, I finally took the plunge and repainted both the interior and exterior. This wasn’t just about refreshing the look—I upgraded to a washable, more durable paint that makes maintenance significantly easier. For families with children or pets, this practical upgrade is worth every penny. I kept the same colors since I liked them and they blended with my decor.
Pro Tip: When selecting paint, consider both aesthetics and functionality. Higher quality paints might cost more initially but offer better coverage, durability, and lower maintenance over time.
Flooring That Makes Sense
Carpet in bedrooms is a classic choice, but after evaluating my lifestyle needs, I decided to replace all bedroom carpet with Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP) flooring to match what I already had in other areas of my home.
This presented a challenge since my specific flooring had been discontinued. However, working with a knowledgeable supplier (shout out to Carpet Depot!) made all the difference. They located enough material to complete the project and even secured extra boxes for potential future repairs.
Real Estate Insight: Consistent flooring throughout a home can make spaces feel larger and more cohesive, potentially increasing marketability when it’s time to sell.
Kitchen Transformation: Beyond Basic Updates
The kitchen offered an opportunity to make high-impact changes:
Cabinet Refresh with Designer Touch
Rather than a simple repaint, I took a two-tone approach using Sherwin Williams Snowbound on upper cabinets and Repose Grey on lowers. This designer technique makes the space feel more custom and current.
Improved Functionality
I replaced the over-range microwave and cabinet with a custom-built hood, moving the microwave to the pantry. This seemingly small change dramatically improved both the aesthetic and functionality of the cooking area. After receiving several recommendations for different companies, I chose Salvaged Blessings for the kitchen project, and they did a great job!
BEFORE & AFTER |
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Lighting That Makes a Statement
Adding pendant lights above the kitchen peninsula not only improved task lighting but introduced a decorative element that elevates the entire space.
Value Consideration: Kitchen updates typically offer among the highest returns on investment in residential real estate. Even partial renovations that focus on aesthetics and improved functionality can significantly impact buyer interest.
Master Bedroom: Creating a Retreat
The master bedroom transformation demonstrates how thoughtful design can completely change how you experience a space:
Optimized Layout
Simply rearranging furniture created a more spacious feel without changing the room’s dimensions.
Focal Point Creation
Adding decorative molding to the wall behind the bed and painting it Sherwin Williams Refuge created a sophisticated focal point that grounds the room.
AI TO REALITY |
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Dedicated Relaxation Zone
By relocating the TV and incorporating a new fireplace, I carved out a cozy sitting area perfect for reading and relaxation.
Lifestyle Value: Creating distinct zones within a bedroom transforms it from merely a place to sleep into a true personal retreat.
Harnessing AI for Design Visualization
One of the most helpful tools in my renovation process was artificial intelligence. Before committing to major changes like the two-tone kitchen cabinets, custom hood installation, or the accent wall in my master bedroom, I used my real estate AI visualization tools to “see” the results.
This technology allowed me to:
- Test different color combinations for the kitchen cabinets before deciding on Snowbound for uppers and Repose Grey for lowers
- Visualize how the custom hood would look in place of the over-range microwave and cabinet
- Preview various shades of accent colors for the master bedroom wall before selecting SW Refuge
- Experiment with furniture arrangements to optimize the bedroom layout
Lessons Learned: Planning Your Own Updates
My renovation journey taught me several valuable lessons worth sharing:
- Prioritize projects that impact daily life. Focus first on changes that will improve how you actually live in your home.
- Consider continuity. Think about how updates in one area will visually connect to adjacent spaces.
- Stock up on discontinued materials when possible. If you can’t complete all projects at once, secure matching materials for future phases.
- Balance trendy with timeless. Incorporate current design elements in ways that can be easily updated later.
- Use technology to your advantage. AI visualization tools can save you from costly mistakes by allowing you to “see” changes before making them.
- Document the process. Before and after photos not only provide personal satisfaction but can serve as valuable reference points if you sell your home later.
The Bottom Line
Home updates serve dual purposes: enhancing your current living experience and potentially increasing property value. The most successful improvements strike a balance between personal preference and market appeal.What home updates have you been considering? I’d love to hear about your projects and answer any questions about potential returns on investment for specific improvements in our current market.Are you considering selling and wondering what updates might increase your value? Call/text me … I’m happy to help!