Whether you’re looking to sell your waterfront property or simply wish to upgrade it, there are a handful of renovations you can make to beautify the home and increase its property value. You don’t have to add a spare bedroom or deck to reap the benefits, either — although those certainly are options. In fact, you could easily finish many of the following projects in a single weekend.
You’ll have more time to enjoy sunny days out on the water, and your property will look fantastic. Sounds like a win-win, right?
1. Paint
One of the easiest and most affordable waterfront home improvement projects involves painting the building’s interior and exterior. Generally, outdoor jobs last about 15 years if you apply the coats properly and use high-quality paint. Plus, you can completely transform your property for a relatively small cost. Begin with the shutters, then move onto the siding. You could even coat old bricks in white paint for a modern rustic look.
Alternatively, you could paint the interior. While walls are the most obvious canvas, trim, crown molding, the fireplace, built-ins, doors, and ceilings are fair game, too. Opt for warm, welcoming colors to attract more potential buyers when you go to sell your home.
2. Replace the Front Door
The front door is the first thing you, guests and potential buyers will see before entering your home. If yours isn’t too eye-catching, it may be time to upgrade it. Stain the wood a different color than the rest of your home to make it pop or completely replace it with a sturdier design. While you’re at it, you might as well update the screens, reseal the door and add a pretty wreath.
3. Landscape
Regardless of whether you can see your property from the water or the street, landscaping should be a top priority. Along with the front door, your yard, flowerbeds, and shrubs give your guests and potential buyers their first impression of your home. Therefore, you must take time to water the grass, edge flowerbeds, and weed the garden. Go the extra mile and add outdoor space like a patio or porch so you can enjoy the fruits of your labor.
4. Install a Dock
Many people purchase waterfront property because they’re interested in boating and other water sports. They want something that can accommodate their passions. Subsequently, most will expect you to have some sort of dock onto which you can tie a boat. Otherwise, they’ll have to store theirs somewhere else, which is both inconvenient and costly.
As you begin the installation process, choose quality materials that will last through the winter, and consider purchasing a floating dock. This type of dock rises and falls with the tide and is easier to install than others. It’s also less difficult to maintain and repair than a stationary dock, making it a cost-efficient choice for both you and any future owners.
5. Light It Up
It might also be beneficial to add some exterior lighting. Whether it be solar lights to illuminate a pathway, string lights over the back patio or wall sconces, adding some light can easily beautify your property. Plus, it draws attention to your home in the best way possible, leaving neighbors and potential buyers impressed and maybe even a bit jealous.
6. Upgrade the Kitchen
Another popular renovation for waterfront properties involves upgrading the kitchen. Even if you don’t cook very often, installing new appliances, updating countertops and painting cabinets can increase resale value and attract potential buyers. Of course, this home improvement project may be more costly and require more of your time.
If you have simply can’t commit to a complete kitchen overhaul, find small, simple ways to give the space a more modern feel. Switch out hardware like drawer pulls and knobs or remove some cabinets and replace them with open shelves. You might even purchase a new faucet or install an updated kitchen sink.
7. Add New Appliances
New appliances in the kitchen are eye-catching and useful. However, if it was time to update the fridge and oven, odds are other appliances are reaching the end of their lives, too. Consider adding a new washer and dryer, dishwasher, toilet or microwave. Look for the ENERGY STAR logo if you want to lower your utility bill, reduce your environmental impact, and impress potential buyers.
Renovating Is an Investment
While many of these projects may not take much time and money, they’re still an investment in your home and family’s future. If you end up living or vacationing there for many more years to come, you’ll be able to enjoy and appreciate your dedication to improving the property.
On the other hand, if you plan to sell it, your efforts to improve curb appeal and interior aesthetics will gain more attention from buyers. Plus, you may be able to set a higher price, allowing you to recoup the cost of renovations and buying the home in the first place.
Bio: Oscar Collins is the managing editor at Modded. He writes about cars, fitness, the outdoors and more. Follow @TModded on Twitter for more articles from the Modded team.
