The best summer investments for your home

This summer, homeowners may be curious to know how to not only beat the heat but also make smart investments that can increase the resale value of their property.

There are many ways to make your home more comfortable while also enhancing its long-term value, says Adrian Goslett, regional director and CEO of RE/MAX in South Africa.

To help homeowners plan for summer success, RE/MAX South Africa shares their top three summer home improvement projects that can help boost property values.

Indoor and outdoor living

In a country that celebrates a holiday called National Braai Day, nothing could be more valuable than an outdoor recreation area. Indoor-outdoor space will expand a home’s usable living area and will make any home more attractive, which could result in a higher list price when it comes time to sell. Homeowners can create these spaces by investing in bi-fold doors around the covered patio area. The higher quality the finishes, the more value they can add. For example, a room with outdoor tiles will add more value than a room with untreated concrete or outdoor flooring.

Solar Panels

With the abundance of sunlight available this time of year, using solar energy makes sense. Not only is it the most sustainable way to live, but it will also add tremendous value to any property. Furthermore, homes that use solar energy tend to sell faster than those that don’t. Solar panels can increase the overall desirability of a home on the market and stand out in the competitive real estate landscape.

adaptation

For some, air conditioning is a must in any property. While it is seen as a luxury feature for some buyers, others prioritize it on their wish list (especially among foreign buyers). These units can provide some much-needed relief during the summer months and can also heat the home during the colder months of the year. As such, air conditioning not only enhances the livability of a property, but also plays an important role in increasing the overall resale value.

Whether it’s in the form of an energy-efficient upgrade or an outdoor oasis conversion, homeowners who choose to tackle any of these summer upgrades can increase the resale value of their property.

“If you’re not sure what features will add value to your home, talk to your local RE/MAX real estate practitioner and learn about current trends among buyers in your area. Every suburb is unique, so it’s helpful to engage a real estate professional familiar with current local market conditions .

Writer: Kayla Ferguson