Current homeowners can enjoy lower utility bills and an energy-efficient home while they live in the house. Then, they can enjoy a fantastic return on investment when it’s time to sell the house.
These are some of the most amazing energy-efficient upgrades worth the time and money.
New Windows
Windows are known for offering a substantial return on investment. Old windows are known for being drafty and breaking easily. However, new windows are often double or triple-panes to provide additional protection against the elements.
Window installation companies will seal gaps and cracks to prevent drafts during installation. This can instantly help lower your heating and cooling bills while you live in the house.
Before you start any home structural project – such as replacing windows, tearing out a wall, add new flooring, rewiring the home, and any other major renovation project, run some financial numbers to determine whether the renovation is a smart investment.
The numbers include the estimated costs, home value assessment, financing costs, and other related calculations.
Review these cost-related issues to remodeling vs. buying a new home.
links to internal page (opens new win)
| analyze the numbers | |
| estimate the cost of your project | |
| get your home value |
The 2nd step for planning your home structural project is deciding what you would like to do.
Will it be a –
- adding a new wall or tearing one out,
- re-doing your plumbing and or electrical wiring,
- changing up your flooring,
- upgrading the home with new windows and doors,
- installing new lighting,
- redesigning your structural layout,
- or something else.
Start collecting ideas by referencing our collection of home structural analysis: view directory
Step 3 is sketching your ideas on paper (or digitally) and developing the spec plan.
The spec plan determines what type of home structural project materials, items, and design considerations that will be needed. It will also contain the product specifications for each structural element.
You will use the spec plan and architectural design to bid the project out to a contractor.
links to internal page (opens new win)
| developing the spec plan | |
| sketch remodeling plan | |
| design considerations |
Step 4 is finding and negotiating the contract with a structural contractor.
Give your home structural project ideas and specs to a contractor for review and bid analysis. Use the local network (aligned with HomeAdvisor) to find the right contractor for your project.
Review guides for contractor selection and negotiation.
links to internal page (opens new win)
| search home contractors | |
| selecting your contractor checklist |
| contractor negotiations | |
| contractor evaluation form |
Step 5 is arranging financing once you selected the contractor and finalized the contract for your project.
Using the equity value in your home is one of the best financing option for home structural project. Start with a home equity line of credit or use the bank equity program.
Other options may include cash-out refinancing, personal savings, and/or financing from home improvement contractors.
links to internal page (opens new win)
| financing options | |
| getting qualified for financing | |
| negotiate rates |
Step 6 is where the project begins.
It starts with setting up the work area, removing everything that needs to be replaced, installing necessary connections, putting in the final touches, etc.
It also means working with the contractor, managing the project, and getting the home remodeling project inspected before releasing any funds.
links to internal page (opens new win)
| working with the contractor | |
| managing remodeling project |
| about a home project inspections | |
| find home inspector |
Programmable Thermostats
Programmable thermostats offer more convenience and energy efficiency. Most of these thermostats let you easily control the temperature of your house from an app on your phone.
Turn down the air conditioning or heat while you’re away from the house to reduce energy usage, and turn it back up an hour before you get home to ensure the family is comfortable. T
hese are affordable, and most HVAC companies install them for a low cost.
Metal Roof
This energy-efficient upgrade is more expensive than a programmable thermostat but worth the cost. Metal roofing offers a fantastic return on investment.
Metal shingles are known to last about 50–70 years. Various colors and styles are available, ensuring you can find a metal roofing material that matches the aesthetic of your home.
This material reflects UV rays into the atmosphere to help keep your home cool during a heat wave.
Appliances
If you plan on selling the appliances in your house with the house, it’s essential to ensure they are energy efficient. Replace outdated appliances with energy-efficient versions that are certified to reduce energy usage.
Take the time to shop around to find appliances to ensure they save energy and are worth the money. Consider modern materials like stainless steel to make appliances more appealing to buyers and increase your return on investment.
Other Upgrades
These are far from the only things you can do to make your home more energy-efficient and appealing. Schedule HVAC maintenance and keep the receipt to show that your home is well-maintained and that your system is energy efficient.
Caulk gaps in the house to prevent drafts. Invest in ductwork cleaning. Consider upgraded insulation, such as spray foam insulation.
In Conclusion
Real estate agents like Claudette Spinelli-Schwartz can use the energy-efficient features of your home as a massive selling point to help your house sell faster and for a higher price.
Potential buyers often want a home that can help them reduce their carbon footprint on the planet, and these energy-efficient upgrades will do just that. Check out the rest of the site for more information.
Find Energy Efficient Services Insulation Windows-Insulation Ducts & Vents Thermostats Solar Installation Skylights Home Automation Generators Home Automation Electrial Wiring Networks/Phone Computers/ Media Home Security Alarms top-rated, pre-screened local contractors FREE: download contractor selection enter zip code – powered by HomeAdvisor ™
Image credit: energy-efficient upgrades by envato.com
end of post … please share it!
|__________________________________________________________|
home remodeling surprise
find out where it might go - new win
Helpful article? Leave us a quick comment below.
And please share this article within your social networks.
