You have found the home that best suits you and your family’s needs. You like the structure of the home, the neighborhood it is in, and how it fits your style and character. Now it is time to decide what changes, upgrades, and improvements you can make your new home a perfect fit. Determining where to start remodeling after purchasing your new home is among the first decisions to make.
Remodeling certain rooms or areas of your new home can serve to add more living space, customize the floor plan to better suit your family’s lifestyle, improving the energy efficiency throughout the home, and adding resale value to the property. Ideally, all remodeling or renovating projects would be able to be completed before you move it, but that is not always physically or financially possible. The first step is to prioritize the importance, costs, and time it will take for each task.
The following are some common ways you can remodel and upgrade your new home before or shortly after you move in.
HVAC Systems
A high priority for new home owners is energy efficiency. Older heating and cooling systems have to work harder to perform, which uses more energy and costs more to control the temperature throughout the home from season to season. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends replacing HVAC systems every 10-15 years, which when components typically show signs of deterioration resulting in a decline in efficiency. While replacing the entire HVAC system will cost thousands of dollars, you will see long-term savings on your utility bills and a significant increase in the home’s value.
Plumbing Upgrades
Just because you turn on the faucets in your new house and water comes out does not mean the plumbing system is in top working order. Old or faulty pipes can result in water leaks and burst pipes that cause major, costly damage to the home. Signs that you may need to do some plumbing work or pipe replacement include:
- Low water pressure
- Water and sewage leaks
- Water color
The costs associated with replacing pipes and plumbing systems are essentially the same no matter how old the home or the existing system is. The size and layout of the home, the number of bathrooms and fixtures play are key factors in determining plumbing and pipe replacement costs.
More basic upgrades include replacing showerheads, faucets, and fixtures that provide a modern look, and increase the performance of your showers and sinks. There are now unlimited design options, features, and price ranges to improve the form and function of your new bathroom and kitchen systems and accessories.
Bathroom, Kitchen Quartz Countertops
Bathroom and kitchen countertops are the most used and abused surfaces in the home. Replacing countertops give these areas a fresh look for a new start. Engineered quartz countertops are durable, resistant to scratches and stains, and easy to clean and maintain over time. Costs of installing new quartz countertops vary depending on the type of quartz and the size of the job. The costs for kitchen or bathroom quartz countertops range from $50 to $70 per square foot, with installation costs in the $2,000-4,000 range.
Hardwood Floors
Flooring helps to define the look and feel of your new home. Upgrading the flooring throughout the home or in selected rooms or areas can make a significant change in the way it fits into your family’s needs and preferences. Solid hardwood flooring has been a top choice for U.S. homeowners for decades. Hardwood floors offer a rich, natural look with a relatively simple installation process, while engineered wood flooring give you the same look at a lower cost.
Patio Decks
Installing a patio deck in your new backyard creates a unique gathering space for friends and family to enjoy the outdoors with the comforts of home. Accessory options vary widely and can include outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and hot tubs, but even a basic deck will add to the quality of the home and serve to increase the property value at the same time.
Lighting Improvements
Upgrading the lighting systems in your new home is a great way to add atmosphere, and make everyday tasks like cooking and putting on makeup easier. Simply swapping out old incandescent light bulbs with energy-saving LED bulbs offer flexibility and save money on monthly utility bills. Dimmer options and the use of smart technology allows more options and control over the lighting of your home than ever before.
Assuming you plan to stay in your new home for many years to come, there is no rush to get all remodeling and renovation projects done at once. Prioritize your needs, preferences, and budget. You will want to try to get as many of the major changes you want to make completed before moving in, and setting a timeline and budget will help keep you on track.