What are the most common home renovations you think will add value to homes in 2019?

We reached out to our RE/MAX Influencers – a panel consisting of RE/MAX Sales Associates throughout Canada – to put together some of the home renos they think will come before the rest in 2019.

 First Impressions Are Everything
Exteriors are quite literally the first thing that people see when they come to your home. Fresh landscaping, new exterior paint, cleaning and/or painting the siding, or upgrading the outside doors are all good places to start. Outdoor space renovations and covered porches are also high up on the list of must-haves.

Utility Upgrade
Sometimes the less “sexy” upgrades are the most important ones. In this market, people seem to be more concerned with things like the life of the furnace and hot water tank. It’s also important that the utilities are highly efficient. Upgrading to heat pumps instead of the traditional forced air systems that deal more efficiently and economically with changing outdoor temperatures are becoming more important.

Basement Suites
Whether it’s to bring in supplemental income or to enjoy themselves, extra space is becoming a priority.

“Secondary suites or in-law suites.  With rising interest rates many homeowners may need to bring in additional income to afford their housing costs.” – Loni Hamer-Jackson, RE/MAX Real Estate, Kamloops, BC

Kitchens & Bathrooms
“Kitchens and bathrooms for sure – that never changes regardless of what year it is!” – Lisa Salt, RE/MAX Vernon, Vernon, BC 

Kitchen renovations are always a good place to start to add value to your home. Removing walls to design open floor plans in older homes is always good value. Adding an extra bathroom also goes a long way.

New Flooring
New floors is a good starting point as well when trying to refresh the place.

“Removal of carpets for cleaner air” – Judy Gray, RE/MAX Mid-Island Realty, Ucluelet, BC

It’s all in the Details
Most people would know that painting of the inside of the home can help with a sale, but pay attention to the little details. Shortcuts won’t help in the long run!

“When a home is freshly painted, but a buyer opens a closet door to find it has not been painted, buyers start to ask themselves what else has been “looked over”. Don’t miss the small stuff!” – Denise Gallup, RE/MAX Camosun, Sidney, BC