Adding a small addition to your house can make a big impact by adding more space and increasing its value. If you’ve been planning to make an addition, here are a few ideas to get started on creating the home you’ve always wanted.
Of course, before you start any big home project it’s important to let your agent know. This way our insurance agency can make sure your home is properly covered in case of an accident.
Additionally, make sure to check with your town or city hall before you build or add anything to your house. Even if you own the house or land you’re building on, many projects still require a construction permit, so be sure to check with your local ordinance before you begin.
Greenery
This doesn’t have to be a major addition. Low maintenance plants like shrubbery can add a lot of curb appeal to your home. Adding mulch or wood chips around your plants will also make them look tidy and prevent weeds from growing.
However, if you’re looking for a more unique set up and have the room, why not start growing your own vegetables? Vegetables such as, tomatoes and peppers don’t require much room to grow, plus you can fertilize them with compost from old food scraps.
Adding some decor like a few benches, fountain, or even stone pathways can turn your garden into a relaxation getaway. In fact, if you’re looking for some beautiful outdoor furniture, our partner H & H outdoor accents has a variety of products for your outdoor space.
Recreation
With the kids out of school for the summer, it’s beneficial to have a spot for them to play and be outdoors. If you have the room consider building a playground or small basketball court. Something as simple as a sandbox or slide will keep them entertained and active for hours.
Your guests can also benefit from a nice recreational spot. So, consider setting up a badminton net or building a horseshoe pit for the adults to enjoy. However, if you’re planning to add something bigger, like a pool, don’t forget to check out our pool safety tips to keep everyone in the home safe.
Fencing
If you’re looking for a bit more privacy why not add fencing around your home? This can be particularly beneficial if you have neighbors close by and want to keep items out of your yard.
If you already have fencing, consider getting an upgrade. Chain-link fencing can become warped and rusted over time, while wooden fencing can become faded, chipped, and damaged from seasonal weather. There’s no reason to replace the whole fence if only a part of it is damaged, fresh paint and tidying up around it can give your yard a whole new look.
Additionally, if you’re up to the challenge you can also fence your property with large bushes. This will require more maintenance and care, but it holds more aesthetic than a traditional fence.
Driveway Appeal
Similar to fencing, driveways can also become cracked and damaged due to seasonal weather. Now, is the perfect time to repave it. Whether you use an asphalt company or know how to do it yourself, make sure to plan around the time it takes for the new coat to seal and dry. This way your driveway won’t have damage while it dries.
Garage Cleaning
Speaking of the driveway, if you have a garage it may need updates as well or at least a bit of TLC. Take all of the items you don’t use anymore and either donate them or sell them in a yard sale.
Additionally, installing a couple of shelves or hangers can help you organize tools, cleaners, or other items that should be stored away in a safe spot.
Basement Transformation
Basements can provide a cool place to be in the summer and add a nice spot to store excess items you may not have room for. However, many basements remain unfinished and under furnished.
Therefore, adding some new carpeting, furnishing the walls, and new lighting like small studio lights can bring a whole new environment to your basement space. Add some workout equipment to create a home gym or a TV with surround sound to create a home theater.
While you’re updating the basement space, it’s also a good time to check for any mildew, foundation cracks, or leaks that may have occurred over a period of time. Make sure to report anything you see to your insurance agent before it gets worse.
In fact, always remember to report anything you see or expand on in your home. You don’t want to be deep in debt because your current policy can’t cover the additional value.
Here’s to a happy home and a feeling of accomplishment from your hard work. Do you have any big house projects you plan to tackle this summer? If so, we’d love to hear about it in the comments below!