1. Electrical and Plumbing

Updating enclosed electrical and plumbing can be very costly and difficult. It’s an easier task to undertake when you are already removing walls or portions of them. It’s also a lot easier to mask this type of work and less involved when you will be refinishing walls and floors and such anyway.

Additionally, there is a real safety factor to be aware of, especially if you are adding demand of your existing electrical systems. If you are adding large appliances or other large electrical loads, make sure your existing electrical panel can handle these additional loads, otherwise you may need to add a panel.

2. Heating And Cooling

Many older homes do not have adequate heating or cooling systems.  An average furnace’s life span tops out at 15 years and central air conditioning in older homes are typically substandard. In a desert climate like Phoenix, it’s worth investing in good central air conditioning. Over the last decade, green remodeling has become a hot topic. There are other ways you can improve your home’s insulation that requires your mechanical systems to work less. For example, double or triple pane windows can reduce the amount of heat transfer during summer months. Changing your thermostat a few degrees can mean thousands of dollars over a year.

3. Counter tops, Surfaces and Fixtures

The whole point of remodeling is to come out with something better than you went in with. Investing in a few higher-end products even while preserving some of the old is often the most economical way to do this. For example, a new surface or new countertops of a higher quality can add a lot of value and appeal to a kitchen, even if you do not go as in-depth as installing new cabinets (for which some new paint or resurfacing or facing can make a world of difference). The small details like upgrading basic light fixtures and plate covers can also pay off.

4. Aesthetic Upgrades

Putting on a new coat of paint is a great way to add value. This is especially true for some rooms, like a younger girl’s room that used to be pink. It can also help to get rid of any scuffs on the wall. Paint is one of your best bang for your buck when upgrading your home.

Another simple upgrade that makes a huge impact is new carpeting. Overtime, carpet collects stains, dirt, and possibly mold.  New carpeting and paint are cost-effective ways to give your home a much needed face lift without breaking the bank.

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