I'm buying my first home soon, how do I make it's value go up?

Question

I'm buying it in a decent neighborhood. Low crime, noise, ect. I want to raise the value of my home before I leave in a few years (I'm moving in about 3 years again - military), so what would be a wise cosmetic improvement to make on the home?

Exterior? Such as the lawn, gardening and paint job of the house/fence. And general upkeep of the exterior(as well as interior.)

Or something interior such as upgrading the flooring or appliances.

OR is it even wise to buy a home all together since we're going to be moving in such a short time anyways?

Answer 1

Quickest way is to add square footage.

Other than that, upgrade windows and siding,

new appliances don't increase the value of your home,

upgraded flooring and upgraded fixtures in the kitchen and bathroom will add value.

Depending on the market in your area, it's a great time to buy a home especially if you can catch one in foreclosure or one that's been sitting for a while.

Answer 2

You could put in really expensive landscaping in- or just make it cheap and make it look expensive. Put on some additions, renovate it, say i'll give you this refrigerator for $300 - or if you have a swing-set- give it to them but make the price higher. Good Luck!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!...

Answer 3

upgrading kitchens and baths is always profitable. a fresh coat of paint just before you sell would be best, neutral colors only. If its an older home, update teh light fixtures, put in some newer flooring, pergo or laminate. Replace anything that is in disrepair. Applainces are good, but don't go too high end or you won't recoup your money. Also make sure to keep up the exterior. Curb appeal is a good selling point.  

Answer 4

renovating it!

Answer 5

Update the kitchen and the bathrooms, there is where you get the most bang for your buck.

Cosmetics do not significantly effect the appraisal, but it should look decent.

Answer 6

hang really old and pricey paintings all over  

Answer 7

Fix it up

Answer 8

1. Curb appeal- good windows, nicely kept siding/brick/stucco/etc, trimmed and neat landscaping

2. Updated kitchen.  Doesn't have to be stainless steel, but make sure you have all matching & energy efficient appliances, nice flooring and countertops.

3. Updated baths: tile floors, granite (or similar) countertops, updated lighting and vanity.  Toilet and shower the same color.

You can never tell in this market if you'll get back the money you put in.  But upgrading in those areas generally returns the most.

4. Nice flooring and paint in all the rooms

Answer 9

Its probably the best time to buy, the market is at its lowest now, First make sure your buying where theres a lot of new development then worry about cosmetics. I put in a snap together acrylic floor in one weekend that wasnt too bad, then maybe paint, and some nice landscaping, Hopefully the market goes up soon and you'll be set. My brother just made 52,000 in 4 yrs on his 135, 000 house just from moving in a developing area.