Exterior projects that are worth the investment

Prioritizing exterior projects can be an overwhelming process. You may feel like you have a million projects to get done and not enough time - or money - to do them. Take a step back and try prioritizing where you'll see the biggest bang for your buck. Here are seven common exterior projects and the value you'll gain from the investment.

1. Front entrance

It's no secret that we're big fans of front entrance makeovers around here! There's no better way to make the best first impression whether for potential buyers or friends and family than at the front door. But the payoff doesn't end there. According to the 2016 Hanley Wood Cost vs. Value report, replacing your front door could help you recoup 91% of the costs when you sell. If a new door is out of budget, a fresh coat of paint and new door hardware can help achieve the same effect for a fraction of the cost. Check out our Pinterest boards for a little DIY inspiration.

2. Garage door

Just like your front door, your garage door is another opportunity to make a great first impression. A beat up door with an outdated color and year's of wear and tear from the elements can be a major turn off to potential buyers and a burden on all the hard work you've done improving the exterior of your home. Replacing the garage door could cost you around $1,652 with 91.5% of the costs recouped. Just like with your front door, if a full replacement is out of budget, there are little things you can do to take a quality garage door and give it a refresh. Check out this dirt cheap DIY garage makeover. 

3. Siding

While a much more hefty investment than the two projects above, new siding can be just the wow-factor your home needs to sell fast. Respondents of the 2016 Cost vs. Value report revealed that the return on all siding projects in all markets was 77.0%. Of course, costs will vary based on the material you choose so be sure to do your research on which siding is the best quality and well suited for your climate and neighborhood.

4. Deck

Outdoor living space is a quickly growing must-have among the wishlists of homeowners and buyers alike. Adding on a deck to accommodate outdoor entertaining with take your curb appeal to the next level while giving you additional space to enjoy the spring and summer weather. When it comes to adding value to your home, the materials matter. Consider building a wood deck over composite where you could see a 75% return vs. 64%.

5. Stone veneer

Does the exterior of your home just feel like it's missing something? Replacing the bottom third of your siding with a manufactured stone veneer not only looks great, but increases your resale value as well. This project would cost well below what it would take to replace all siding and the average homeowner sees a return of 92.9% of costs, a number that continues to increase year-over-year.

6. Roof

Replacing the roof is an expensive investment that every homeowner dreads. Potential buyers are often quick to ask the age of the roof before making a decision to make an offer. If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan, it may be worth avoiding losing a potential sale making the investment to replace. This selling point will also justify a slightly higher asking price. Check out the full details on cost vs. value here.

 

Which exterior project is on the top of your priority list this summer? Comment below to let us know!