The most common upgrades for a fixer-upper are the ones that affect safety and value first: roofing, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC, followed by kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, paint, and curb appeal. Tackling the essential systems before the cosmetics protects your investment. Here are nine common fixer-upper upgrades and how to prioritize them, with help from a remodeling contractor.
Buying a fixer-upper might seem like a lot of work at first. However, it can save money and give you a chance to create your dream home, and it also expands your options within this competitive market. However, it will need a few upgrades.
Here at GreatBuildz, a free service that connects homeowners in Los Angeles, Orange County, Ventura & San Diego with reliable general contractors, we work with tons of homeowners looking to upgrade their fixer-uppers – here are a few common ones to keep in mind.
Most Common Upgrades For a Fixer-Upper
1. Upgrade the Lighting
Your older home probably has outdated lighting that may not complement your current design plans. For example, a vintage chandelier may not work with a more modern style.
In addition, you’ll need to see if the fixtures are worn down or require new wiring.
Adding new lighting is an affordable upgrade that makes a big difference. Layer different types, such as task, ambient, and accent. Place under-cabinet lights for cooking or lamps for reading. Also, ceiling pendants create a relaxing atmosphere in the living room.
2. Add a Fresh Coat of Paint
Paint is an easy and affordable way to make a home look brand new. It can help improve a space and hide imperfections. Whites and neutral colors are popular in modern homes, while blues can provide a calming atmosphere. You can also repaint cabinets or ceilings for a fresh look if you don’t want to paint the whole room.
Go for colored furniture like a pink sofa if you want to add some color. You can also add pops of color through accent spaces such as entryways.
Choose paints with low volatile organic compounds. This can improve your indoor air quality and is better for the environment.
3. Tear Out Any Old Carpeting
Old carpeting can hold dust and pollen, which can lower indoor air quality and make your home look messy. Replace it with something new. You can consider adding hardwood floors to provide a beautiful look and durability. They are also low maintenance and better for the environment.
Try laminate if you’re looking for the appearance of wood on a budget. These can cost around $3-$8 per square foot. Vinyl and tile are also popular choices for homeowners.
4. Enhance the Home’s Curb Appeal
A home’s curb appeal is essential for increasing resale value and impressing guests, so make sure you focus on fixing up the outside as well. Remove any dead plants and add new ones. You could also plant a garden with colored flowers and vegetables if you want to go further. It can give your exterior color and save a trip to the grocery store.
Make sure to repair any cracks in the siding or add a fresh coat of paint. Replace an outdated mailbox and add decorative house numbers. Add a few elements to your backyard, such as a fire pit or outdoor kitchen, if you like entertaining.
5. Add New Windows
Many older homes may have cracked or improperly fitted windows, so you should replace them to protect your home’s interior and increase its curb appeal. Upgrade to Energy-Star rated ones to lower your utility bills. Windows you don’t replace should be sealed to prevent air leaks. You can do this by weatherstripping or caulking the openings.
Also, add fun colored curtains to improve your space.
6. Check the HVAC System
HVAC units must function properly to ensure your home receives plenty of warm and cool air. Older homes may have worn-down systems that need to be repaired or replaced.
Don’t forget your filters, which should be cleaned and changed regularly. Clogged filters can cause the machine to work harder and pollute your indoor air. Overworked appliances could break down quicker.
7. Repair the Roof
Many fixer-uppers will have leaky or worn-down roofs. See if you can make simple repairs by sealing any cracks. If not, you may need to have it replaced. The average cost is around $8,000 to install. Have a professional inspect your roof to determine the best course of action.
Another way to decide is to consider the roof’s age. Most structures will last around 25 to 40 years. Other factors include your budget and the extent of the damage.
8. Make Drywall Repairs
It’s vital to fix drywall issues before you move in. It ensures your family is safe and the structure is sound. A larger renovation project could also disrupt your daily routine if you wait.
It can also be a messier job, and you don’t want to stain furniture or flooring. Consider hiring a professional to get the job done quicker and more efficiently. It can cost around $293-$875 to repair drywall.
9. Remodel Kitchens and Bathrooms
Kitchens and bathrooms receive tons of traffic throughout the day, and they also have high resale value. Therefore, it’s essential to make these spaces functional and stylish. Some older homes may have outdated kitchens and bathrooms, so start simple and repaint kitchen walls and cabinets.
Here are a few more tips to improve the space:
- Update cabinet hardware
- Install new lighting fixtures
- Add a tile backsplash
- Buy energy-efficient appliances
- Upgrade the countertops
Begin bathroom upgrades by updating old plumbing and electrical. Next, you can add new fixtures like a double vanity. Also, upgrade to tile flooring, which is more water-resistant. Adding more storage space is a worthwhile project as well.
Tips for Buying a Fixer-Upper
Making renovations will increase your home’s value. However, you have to find the right home. Here are a few tips for buying a fixer-upper.
Get a Home Inspection
Older homes that need work may have unexpected issues. A home inspection allows you to catch any problems early on. This way, you can plan and budget for them within your renovation.
The inspector will do a detailed review of the house and outline the repairs needed. The process can catch major issues, such as water damage or foundation cracks.
Determine if You Need a Permit
Many projects require a building permit, so check the requirements for your area beforehand. This can prevent delays and hefty fines. Visit your municipal government office online or in-person to apply for a permit.
Here are a few tasks that require a permit:
- Structural work
- Window installation
- Room additions
- Sheds and garages
- Fences
Look Into Loan Options
A fixer-upper may have higher long-term costs, so you should consider your financial options. One is a Federal Housing Administration (FHA) 203(k) rehabilitation loan. This will allow you to finance the house and repairs all in one. However, your home must meet safety and livability standards to be approved.
The other is a Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation Mortgage, which also allows you to have one mortgage amount. However, it’s for renovating an existing structure.
Common Fixer-Upper Projects
There are so many options when buying a new home. You can move into a ready-to-go house with all the amenities or invest in one that requires a little more TLC. A fixer-upper allows you to create your dream home, so consider these improvements to make your property truly your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I fix first in a fixer-upper?
Start with safety and structure: the roof, foundation, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC. These protect the home and are expensive to ignore. Once the essentials are sound, move on to value-adding cosmetic upgrades like kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, and paint.
What upgrades add the most value to a fixer-upper?
Kitchens and bathrooms add the most value, followed by flooring, fresh paint, and curb-appeal improvements. Fixing major systems does not always show, but it protects the home and prevents a deal from falling through on inspection. Focus your budget where buyers notice and where safety requires.
Is buying a fixer-upper worth it?
It can be, if you buy at the right price and budget realistically for repairs, including a contingency for surprises. Fixer-uppers let you build equity and customize the home, but underestimating costs is the common pitfall. Get inspections and contractor estimates before you commit.
When it comes to finding the best remodeling contractor in Los Angeles, Orange County, Ventura or San Diego – GreatBuildz is simplifying the contractor search. GreatBuildz is a free service that connects homeowners with reliable, thoroughly screened general contractors and provides project support from start to finish.
Call now (818.317.3567) to chat with a real person about your next renovation project or visit our website for more information: www.greatbuildz.com
