Invest in these upgrades for a better-functioning home that you can enjoy now and in the future. Some can increase your resale value, too. Investing in a warranty home plan might reap benefits in the future when appliances get used and abused. Other ways of improvements in your home can be much more simple.
For example, new windows will decrease energy costs and improve your home’s appearance. You can also transform unused spaces into mudrooms and home offices. However, avoid any projects that are too personal and might deter a potential buyer.
1. Install a Programmable Thermostat
If you have old manual thermostats in your home, upgrading to a programmable model will give it a modern feel. These thermostats can be programmed to change settings based on your schedule, preventing energy usage when you’re not at home.
These devices are getting even fancier, with some now being compatible with smartphones to allow you to monitor and adjust your home’s temperature remotely. Some can also provide you with weather forecasts or estimate your home’s energy usage.
Adding these thermostats will make your home more efficient and help to reduce energy costs year-round. This is a great first step before taking on more comprehensive upgrades such as replacing outdated paneled doors and beefing up your home’s insulation.
2. Upgrade Your Doors
If you are looking to modernize your home, consider upgrading your doors. There are many new styles that look great and will keep your home on-trend. Some even include state-of-the-art security features like camera systems and motion triggers.
Upgrading your front door is a great way to add value to your home and show off your personality. It also helps with energy efficiency. A new door can help reduce drafts and cut your energy costs. Plus, it can make your home stand out and feel more welcoming to guests.
3. Replace Your Light Fixtures
Light fixtures are one of the quickest and most affordable ways to modernize your home. Simply swapping out old bulbs for new LEDs can make a significant difference. For a more subtle update, hire an electrician to add backlighting behind mirrors and headboards.
Adding a patterned shade to a chandelier or flush-mount fixture is another way to modernize. Lighter-color shades diffuse light and create a more subdued look, while darker colors focus it on a surface.
If you’re comfortable with a little DIY, you can even paint your light fixtures yourself. Just be sure to turn off the power at your breaker box before you begin.
4. Paint
A fresh coat of paint is one of the most cost-effective and simplest ways to modernize your house. Repainting your exterior with a bright, modern color will help your home stand out on the street and boost its curb appeal.
Stair spindles, trim and molding, door knobs, and cabinets are a few other small touches that can be painted to give your house a modern feel. Deep cleaning and decluttering are also important for making your house look modern.
Landscaping also plays an important role in modernizing your house. Remove any overgrown shrubbery and add concrete steps or a trellis to the front of your house.
5. Add High-Tech Elements
One of the fastest ways to modernize your house is to add high-tech elements. From smart home technology that can help control your home from afar to motion detecting lights, the sky is the limit for what you can do.
Clean lines and simple designs are hallmarks of a modern look, so make sure to remove wallpaper or stenciled wall coverings before painting. Adding backlighting to mirrors or headboards is another way to add a touch of modernization to your home while also saving on your energy costs.
New windows are a great way to give your home a modern look. They’ll open up your living space, let in more natural light and improve your energy efficiency.
6. Add Unique Details
Adding unique details to your house will help you achieve a more modern look. This can be done by installing new window trim, crown molding, or wainscoting. You can also add lighting coves that will create a warm glow in your home’s ceiling.
Another way to add a touch of personality is to use furniture that contrasts with the style of your home. For example, if you have a traditional home, using geometric patterned pillows on your sofa can add a modern touch.
Finally, removing clutter is a great way to make your home feel more modern. Try doing a spring cleaning or hire a professional organizer to tackle any cluttered areas.
7. Add Curb Appeal
Whether you’re planning to sell your home soon or just want to make it look nicer, adding curb appeal will have a big impact. Plant flowers, shrubs or trees in your yard to create an inviting space that’ll catch the eye of anyone who passes by.
If you have the time, making or buying window boxes to place below your windows is a relatively easy weekend project that will significantly spruce up the front of your house. Swapping out your mailbox with a more stylish one can also be a quick and affordable improvement that’ll show potential buyers that you have an eye for detail.