Maximize the resale value of your property

(NC)-It is widely accepted that making the right renovations and upgrades to your home improves the resale value. RE/MAX has identified the 6 smartest renovations priorities to maximize the resale value of your home.

1. It all starts at the curb. Everyone knows the value of a first impression. Landscaping the front and backyard of your home will give you a 7% better return on your renovating dollar over the average return of other popular renovations. Increasing your curb appeal can be as simple as adding containers of brightly coloured flowers

2. The kitchen is the hub. Ever wonder why "kitchen parties" naturally occur every time you have a get-together? Well, it's because the kitchen is the hub of every home. Kitchen upgrades can really deliver, with a 44% higher return on investment than the average return on other popular renovations.

3. Rekindle your passion for living. Nothing beats the feeling of curling up around a fire on a cold winter's night. Not to mention the comforting feeling of hearth and home that a fireplace adds to a room. Installing or upgrading the fireplace in your home will generate an 11% greater return on investment than the average return on other popular renovations.

4. Try a fresh coat of paint. Simple repainting of walls gives you a 29% better return than other popular renos. Whether you go neutral with splashes of colour, or warm and dramatic, trends include mixing strong colours with nature-inspired neutral-energy colours like orange, aqua, sage and blue, along with neutral palates leaning toward bisque, fawn, grey and walnut.

5. Disappear in your personal spa. Making your bathroom the best it can be will generate at 56% better return on investment than the average popular renovation. The goal should be to create a spa-like environment in your bathroom by installing a soaker tub with relaxing jets, or perhaps a new steam shower stall.

6. Great ideas underfoot. Great-looking floors are a strong feature of any home. This upgrade can generate a 22% better return on investment than the average.

Start by ripping out that dated wall-to-wall carpet. Then sand your existing floors down and refinish them, or choose one of the many easy-to-install affordable laminates now available. A darker stain gives an elegant yet up-to-date look.

More detailed information on the importance of maximizing your renovation dollars in relation to the price point of your home is available at www.remax.ca