Room-by-Room Remodeling Tips to Increase a Home's Value

CHICAGO, -- HomeFinder.com, a leading digital real estate site, compiled the top kitchen, bathroom, living room and backyard remodeling tips to increase a home's value and help homeowners make the most out of their renovation budgets. It is important that homeowners understand how renovation relates to home valuation, whether it is updating a newly purchased home, or remodeling to get a house ready to sell.

Below are four home remodeling tips; the full list of tips can be accessed here: http://blog.homefinder.com/2014/03/25/room-by-room-remodeling-tips-to-increase-home-value/

1.) Maximize space in the kitchen: Homeowners can gain space during a renovation by extending cabinets up to the ceiling, or turning an awkward unused space into a food prep corner.

2.) Develop a bathroom design plan: The layout and functionality of a new bathroom should be determined by who will be using it the most.

• Kids bathroom: A double sink will help mornings and bedtime go faster, a pullout stepstool built in to the vanity so little ones can reach the sink, and no-slip tile to avoid any bath time slips.
• Master ensuite: Add a spa-like quality to a master bath with a heated marble floor (the small space will keep the cost down), a walk-in shower, and plenty of natural light.
• Guest bath: Incorporate extra shelving so guests have a place to store items without feeling intrusive. Built-in shower shelves and a vessel sink will allow for more under vanity storage space.

3.) Update living room windows: Energy-efficient windows will lower energy bills and will update a home's appearance. Impact-resistant windows are great for neighborhoods with active kids or areas prone to severe weather. These windows can help protect against damage and reduce home insurance premiums.

4.) Revamp a backyard barbeque: An outdoor kitchen will add value to a home and allow a host to cook, while enjoying the outdoor weather with friends and family. Outdoor-specific appliances (stainless steel sink, outdoor refrigerator, and cement or stainless steel counter) won't rust during rain or snow and adding a bar area will cut down on trips inside the house.