The ultimate goal for many people is to build and own their own homes. After years of renting, you finally have a place you can call your own. But there’s a reason why people have to save up for years to build a home. The median cost for a house in the United States is $200,000. You also need to file a lot of paperwork and work with contractors. And don’t forget the cost of furnishing an empty structure.
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That’s why you need to carefully consider how you’re going to use your future home. Houses are a long-term investment, and you don’t want to be stuck with a non-performing asset. Choose features that will not only make your home more functional but also increase its value. That way, you’ll have an easier time if you ever decide to sell your house to a first-time homebuyer. Here are a few ways to add value to your home:
1. Workspace
Telecommuting has exploded in popularity in recent years, fueled in part by cheaper digital tools and the rising cost of commercial rent. In the last five years alone, the number of people working from their homes has risen by 44 percent. More and more companies are shifting to a remote workforce, which is why it’s important to have an office at home.
Young people, in particular, are more likely to look for a permanent remote position. By turning one of your rooms into a home office, you can get more work done without distractions. And if you decide to sell your home in the future, having an office gives your home an edge over similar properties in the area.
But you’ll need to invest in the necessary upgrades first. You can’t just plop a desk in a room and call it a home office. For starters, you’ll need to have the place wired for high-speed internet. The room should also be quiet and well-lit.
2. Smart home technology
We’ve seen a glimpse of the future of homes through films and television. But what used to be the domain of science fiction is now a reality. Thanks to smart home technology, you can make your home more functional and convenient. You can schedule your lights and appliances to turn on and off at certain times. Did someone ring the doorbell? Just check your phone to see who’s at your doorstep.
Smart tech is fast becoming a must-have for homes today. It has become more affordable in recent years, and you can bring your home to the 21st century with a few taps on your phone. Of course, you’ll need a fast internet connection, but that shouldn’t be an issue.
3. Outdoor space
With many of us spending most of our time at home, being cooped up indoors for days on end isn’t exactly the best thing for our minds and bodies. A deck or patio in your backyard allows you to enjoy the outdoors in the privacy of your home. It also expands your living space, which comes in handy if you have a big family or if you enjoy entertaining.
Make sure the outdoor space blends well with the rest of your home. Use a mix of materials to make the design seem more seamless. For instance, consider using wood for the deck flooring and stone or metal for the posts. Your outdoor deck should blend well with its surroundings.
A final word
These three features can make your home more valuable and livable. You have to be smart about the upgrades and features you choose. Construction costs a lot of money, and you have to be strategic about your decisions to ensure you get the most bang for your buck.
