Lake country home improvements or upgrades can make your home look nicer and function better, improving how you live and grow within your home. The best home improvements even have the power to increase your home's value. 

However, how do you know which remodeling projects constitute the best home renovations in Lake Oconee? The answer is simple. You trust the expertise of PAXISgroup. We created the following list to help you choose the upgrades and renovations that most commonly add value to Lake Oconee homes.

What Are the Best Home Improvements to Increase Value?

Looking at how to increase home value with renovations? Here are our top seven home renovation projects that add value to a home: 

1. Kitchen Upgrades

Upgrading the kitchen is a tried-and-true way of boosting a home’s value and making it more desirable. After all, it is one of the best home improvements in the Lake Oconee area. Yet, it may surprise you that a minor kitchen remodel gives a higher return on investment than an upscale one.

We recommend that you focus on updating outdated styles and adding new appliances, but you don’t need to go for luxury. Simple kitchen upgrades like new cabinet hardware, cabinet and countertop refacing, and repainting alongside new flooring can significantly improve a home's value.

2. Bathroom Renovations

We recommend upgrading your bathroom if you want to enhance home value in Lake Oconee and guarantee a high ROI. Bathroom upgrades are close behind kitchen upgrades as the next most worthwhile room in a home to renovate for the best value.

Bathrooms are like the kitchen—a mid-level remodel can provide a better return on investment than a high-end remodel since you won't be pricing yourself out of the market if you ever decide to sell. It's recommended that you undertake simple renovations like new tiling, new decor features like mirrors, and new cabinetry and paint. 

3. Increased Space

If you've found yourself wishing your home had more space, you may want to consider an addition. We’ve found that increasing the square footage through an add-on gives more value. If you want more space, consider adding a bedroom, mother-in-law suite, or bathroom.

If this isn’t possible, talk to an experienced design-build contractor to see if you can add a bedroom or bathroom by removing any unused or less valuable space. For example, adding an extra bedroom can provide more value than the space you may currently use as a den.

Another idea is to better utilize the space you have by changing around the floor plan. For example, you may be able to knock down a wall or half wall to create a more open floor plan that makes your space more usable, practical, and modern.

4. Curb Appeal Renovations

How the home looks from the outside is important in attracting people's attention. If you want to sell your home, which is the main reason for renovating it, you can undertake several curb appeal improvements.

In addition to landscaping, here are some ideas on how to increase the value of a home through curb appeal projects:

• An entry door replacement with a decorative door that stands out and beautifies the home adds immense curb appeal.

• New siding, such as fiber-cement or vinyl siding, will freshen up the outside of the home.

• Garage door replacement often takes up a significant portion of the front of the home, making it a focus point. So, consider renovating it to modernize the home. 

• A portico over the garage door will enhance it and the entire front of the home.

Adding manufactured stone veneer as a feature on the front of the home will add interest and grandeur.

5. Energy Efficiency

A roof or window replacement won’t necessarily increase a home’s value because they’re expected to be already good. 

Nonetheless, not repairing a damaged or aging roof or not installing energy-efficient windows could bring the value of your home down – as well as increase the cost of your utility bill!

That being said, it is possible to gain value through energy-efficient home upgrades, as people may look specifically for Energy Star-rated windows, doors, and HVAC systems. 

6. Outdoor Living Space Add Ons

Incorporating outdoor living areas can significantly boost your home’s value, especially in Lake Oconee, where the climate encourages spending time outdoors. You should consider adding a deck, patio, or screened-in porch. 

Then, feature-wise, it's best to add elements like outdoor kitchens, fire pits, or seating areas with a view. All of these features can make your home more appealing to buyers and create a space for relaxation and entertaining.

7. Smart Home Technology Improvements

Installing smart home features can make your home more attractive to tech-savvy buyers and increase its value. Some of the most popular smart home technology improvements that add value include automated lighting, thermostats, security systems, and smart appliances. 

All of these renovation upgrades are great additions that offer convenience, energy efficiency, and enhanced security. Essentially, these features improve your living experience, provide long-term cost savings, and make your home more appealing to potential buyers if you decide to sell in the future. 

Lake Country, GA Home Renovation Tips: New Home Upgrades To Avoid

Not all home upgrades will add value to your home in Lake Country. Below we’ve listed a few home upgrades you should avoid since they don't offer high ROI or too little value when you consider their cost: 

• High-end appliances early on: While top-of-the-line appliances are appealing, they may not offer a high return on investment. These can easily be upgraded later without significant cost to your pocket.

• Over-customizing: Don't make the mistake of over-customizing your home when looking to add value. Custom features, like built-in furniture or unconventional layouts, can limit future buyer interest, so it's best to stick to more universally appealing designs.

• Wall-to-wall carpeting: Unfortunately, carpet may not be as desirable as hardwood or laminate flooring, which offers better durability and resale value.

Ask for Guidance On Top Home Upgrades In Lake Country, GA, From The Experts At PAXISgroup

If you want to upgrade your home to increase its value, you should consider speaking with PAXISgroup. We know the best home improvements for ROI and can help you decide which renovation to undertake. 

So, when you're ready, contact our team! Our experienced design-build team has over 100 years of collective industry experience. We want to be your first choice for top-notch custom home construction and renovation to make your dream home come true.