Start in the Kitchen

The kitchen is the heart of the home, the spot where you will spend the majority of your time and make the most memories. It can never be overly well equipped. Pay special attention to cabinets and appliances, as this is what future buyers will focus on, as well as the tools you will use every day. “A lot of people still forego energy efficient, higher-end appliances, because they think technology is always changing and they can always upgrade later, but that is almost always the more expensive route!

The idea that you have to wait years to see a return on your investment is also false. “A quality refrigerator and freezer can keep food fresh longer without drying out — and with the cost of food rising, this is a savings you’ll notice immediately

Kitchen upgrades not to be overlooked include quiet, quality dishwashers; microwave drawers, which are easier to access; stand-alone hoods and under-counter beverage centers, so kids and guests can help themselves without getting in the way of food prep.

Cabinets, too, are expensive to replace later. Even simply upgrading to the semi-custom variety will provide more finish options and better-quality materials. Consider dovetail joinery and divided drawers, as well as both deepening and lengthening cabinets to ceiling height for a sleek, custom look and extra storage.

Combs also recommends pull-out pantries over open shelving. “They provide more storage, easier access and take up less space,” she says. Springing for soft-close doors and premium hinges will help extend the life of all of your cabinetry.

You Can Never Have Too Much Light

A lot of folks overlook lighting’s role in everyday life, but lighting adds to the atmosphere of a home and it can help make important tasks, such as cooking or shaving, easier.

The key rooms to light are the kitchen and bathrooms. “Baths are so overlooked when it comes to lighting,” warns Combs. “There it’s always best to have light coming at you from above and around your head.” Opt for both overhead and task lighting, such as ceiling fixtures coupled with sconces, and you may never squint again (at least not in this room).

In the kitchen, most people put recessed lights and a pendant over an island and call it a day. But under-cabinet lighting helps tremendously when you’re cooking. It also brightens the space and provides a great option when you’re entertaining, as overhead lights can be too harsh.

Lighting the inside of a glass cabinet was on trend for a while, but not everyone likes it and it’s not considered key to everyday living. The areas where you eat, pay bills or do homework should, however, have some type of task lighting and are worth the upgrade. Multiple pendants can work well in those areas.

As for the rest of the house, you’ll need a mix of light that you can control with dimmers. For a complete guide to home lighting, check out this article, How to Light Up Your Home — and Your Life.

Walk This Way

Flooring is key to the look and feel of a home and wood floors never seem to go out of style. If money is tight, focus on the living and kitchen areas only!

Energy Savers

There are so many ways to save on your energy bills beyond buying the right kitchen appliances. Tankless water heaters, as well as plumbing and air conditioning units with high efficiency ratings, can make a huge difference almost immediately and are totally worth upgrading to.

Electric Company

Not all upgrades have to be expensive. Simply adding extra outlets and ceiling fans to certain rooms can make life much more comfortable without costing a fortune.

The reason so many people stress about upgrades is because they didn’t plan for them. Earmark a slice of your budget ahead of time and the process won’t feel nearly as overwhelming, so you can focus on where to get the most bang for your buck.

About Riverside Homebuilders

Riverside Homebuilders is a Homebuilder in the DFW area (See Locations Here) You and your family don’t have to sacrifice living close to the city you love for your dream home. Riverside Homebuilders have a wide selection of fantastic new communities in the Dallas Fort Worth area as well as Northwest Tarrant and Johnson Counties. You will find large homesites, privacy, safety, a country feel, and enjoy award winning schools.

For more information, Contact Rachel or Call us at 817-586-9009