Home Renovations That Offer Return on Investment

Embarking on home renovations isn’t just about enhancing your living space; it's also an investment in your property's value. Whether you're gearing up to sell or simply aiming to create a more comfortable and stylish home, strategic renovations can offer a substantial return on investment (ROI). 

As a remodeler, there are tried and true home improvement projects known for their potential to elevate both aesthetics and property worth. From kitchen overhauls to energy-efficient upgrades, let’s talk about the renovations that can not only transform your living space but also prove to be wise financial decisions in the long run. Here are some of my favorites that strike the perfect balance between functionality and added value:

Kitchen Remodeling: upgrading countertops, cabinets, appliances, and lighting can enhance both aesthetics and functionality.

Bathroom Renovation: modernizing bathrooms with new fixtures, tiles, and amenities can add value to your home.

Curb Appeal Improvements: enhancing the exterior with landscaping, fresh paint, and an inviting entryway can significantly boost curb appeal.

Energy-Efficient Upgrades: installing energy-efficient windows, doors, insulation, and HVAC systems can attract eco-conscious buyers and reduce long-term utility costs.

Basement Finishing: converting a basement into a usable living space, such as an extra bedroom, office, or entertainment area, can add square footage and appeal.

Attic Insulation: adding insulation to the attic can improve energy efficiency and appeal to buyers looking for homes with lower utility bills.

Deck or Patio Addition: outdoor living spaces can be attractive to potential buyers, especially in areas with favorable climates.

Smart Home Upgrades: adding smart home features, such as a programmable thermostat, security system, or lighting, can make your home more appealing to tech-savvy buyers.

Garage Door Replacement: upgrading the garage door not only enhances curb appeal but also improves energy efficiency and security.

Hardwood Flooring Installation: many homebuyers prefer hardwood floors, so replacing carpet with hardwood can be a wise investment.

Additional Bedroom: adding an extra bathroom can significantly increase a home's value, particularly if it’s a flexible space that can be used as an office.

Painting: a fresh coat of paint, both inside and outside, can make a home look well-maintained and appealing.

Before embarking on any renovation project, it's crucial to research local market trends and consult with real estate professionals to ensure that your investment aligns with the preferences of potential buyers in your area. Keep in mind that each improvement is an investment with the potential for lasting returns. Whether it's the heart of the home, a welcoming curb appeal, or the integration of smart technologies, strategic renovations not only enhance your living experience but also position your property as sought-after in the real estate market. 

Bob O'Donnell is the owner of O'Donnell Bros, Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro”. All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O'Donnell Bros, Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

Handy Home Improvements for Aging in Place

Will you stay or will you go? That’s the question that many retirees face as they age. 

According to a recent AARP poll, 90% of people surveyed planned on living at home for at least five to 10 years after they turned 65. So why is staying put such a popular choice? In addition to comfort and proximity to family, another is certainly cost. The average renovation budget for aging in place adds up to around $10,000 versus an assisted living facility which can average around $50,000 per year or much more. 

If you or your parents are considering aging at home, there are some things you can do to make a house more comfortable and safer as getting around becomes increasingly challenging. Popular upgrades such as widening doorways and fitting a walk-in shower should be done by a professional but there are also small things any homeowner can do to start getting prepared. Here are some great DIY ideas:

Grab Bars

A simple grab bar can make everyday tasks like using the bathroom and taking a shower a lot less dangerous. One thing to remember is that a grab bar will potentially have to hold the full weight of a person, so be sure to screw it to wall studs as opposed to sheetrock and pay attention to the weight limit of the bar. In addition to bathrooms, a bar by the bed can help someone with mobility issues get in and out easily.

Ramps

People tend to think that ramps are just for wheelchairs, but that’s not the case. Stairs are a major tripping hazard for anyone who is getting older. Small threshold ramps can be installed between rooms inside while a larger 16-foot ramp will generally suffice for the transition from inside to outside. 

Smart Technology

There are so many fantastic tech options to make aging parents more comfortable while giving their loved one’s peace of mind. From temperature controls to automated blinds, lighting to entertainment systems to locks, being able to control the home with a smartphone can give a mature adult a lot more freedom. Safety systems have come a long way since the “I’ve fallen and I can’t get up” days, with sensors and cameras that can detect changes in movement and routine better than ever before.

Doorknobs

Common issues such as arthritis can make opening doorknobs painful and difficult. Lever handles are a much better option and an inexpensive fix. Similarly, furniture and kitchen knobs should be swapped out with bar-style handles for easier access.  

Electric Stair Lifts

While they are one of the most expensive improvements, a chair to help navigate stairs is a must for people with muscular weakness or walking problems. In addition to physical safety, most people are comforted by knowing there is a safe way to get between floors without fear.

No-Slip Flooring

Falls are the most common cause of injury and death for older Americans and many take place in the bathroom. Replacing or covering the flooring with a non-slip surface is a smart preventative measure and can help reduce the risk of an accident when the floor becomes wet. Many options are simple to install and materials can be found at most local home improvement stores. 

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit http://www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.

DIY Home Projects To Tackle While Sheltering in Place

This week’s cascade of COVID-19 developments might have you staying home a little bit more than planned this weekend. While many of us are feeling healthy, if you’re like me, you can’t help but take social distancing seriously for the sake of others. So if you’re cooped up with not much to do and if you’re feeling well, here are a few around the house projects that you can get out of the way this weekend.

Painting

This weekend is looking cool, which means it’s a great time to give the rooms inside your home an instant facelift with a coat of fresh paint. This job is perfect for this kind of weather because you can open up the windows to let the paint dry quickly and evenly. If you’re wondering what’s on-trend this year, Benjamin Moore’s Color of the Year is a very pale pink called First Light 2102-70 while Sherwin-Williams has opted for a deep navy called Naval SW 6244.

Yard Pick Up

Raking leaves is a rotten task but with a little early spring maintenance, you’ll be able to pick up winter debris and give the lawn a good thatching. Invest in an ergonomic rake so you don’t hurt your back and shoulders and consider composting to enjoy beautiful soil for flower and vegetable planting. 

Mulching

My daughter had me hard at work all week helping her mulch the front beds in her yard. While it’s still a little early, it looks like winter weather is behind us so there is no reason to get started now. Be sure to rake your beds first and consider a weed treatment of your choice before you pick up your mulch. If you need some delivered, just give me a call. 

Wood Floor Treatment

If your floors are looking a bit dull, brighten them up by giving them a light sanding and a few coats of polyurethane. Wood can be tough to maintain because it’s used and abused so often, but if you have a maintenance schedule that you stick to every few years, you’ll not only keep them looking great, you’ll also lengthen their lifecycle. Keep those floors shining by putting felt pads on furniture legs and avoid any cleaners with ammonia, vinegar or harsh chemicals.

Deck Staining

Make sure no rain is in the forecast, as you’ll want a few sunny days to ensure your stain dries properly. Sweep or blow any leaves and pesky whirlybirds from the surface, cracks, and crevasses of the deck. Apply a cleaner or use a power washer to get rid of any mold and mildew and replace missing nails or screws to ensure no one nicks their toes. Always apply stain on a dry surface in thin coats to get the best result. 

Do you have a weekend project that you’re tackling while stuck around the house? I’d love to hear about it. Send me a message on Facebook at www.facebook.com/odonnellbros.

Bob O’Donnell is the owner of O’Donnell Bros. Inc., a Bristol-based home improvement company established in 1975. Email your questions for Bob to info@odonnellbros.com with the subject line “Ask the Pro.” All questions may be considered for publication. To contact Bob for your remodeling needs, call O’Donnell Bros. Inc. at (860) 589-5155 or visit www.odonnellbros.com. Advice is for guidance only.