Traverse City, with its old-fashioned neighborhoods and gorgeous lakeside views, is a dream spot to live. If you’re itching for a renovation project, this is the place to find it!
Imagine turning a charming Victorian cottage near downtown or a mid-century ranch with a killer lake view into your ultimate Traverse City home. But watch out, the median listing price for a fixer-upper in the area is a hefty $435K. This means smart renovations are the key to getting the most out of your investment.
Here are some essential tips to help you turn that fixer-upper into your dream home.
- Bathroom Renovations
Bathrooms hold serious power when it comes to boosting your home’s value. Focus on updating your bathrooms, especially the master bath, for instant appeal. This includes sleek walk-in showers and stylish modern fixtures for a fresh new look.
Choosing the right flooring also makes a huge difference. It needs to be both beautiful and tough enough to handle everyday wear and tear. A fresh coat of paint does wonders for any room, and bathrooms are no exception! Pick colors that are bright and airy to make the space feel larger.
Adding a few freestanding pieces, like a stylish storage bench or a decorative ladder, can make the bathroom feel both functional and luxurious. And don’t forget the power of mirrors! They expand the sense of space in the bathroom and add a touch of brightness.
Just remember, bathroom renovations come with a price tag. In Traverse City, Michigan, the average cost hovers around $10,286. For the most accurate quote and professional execution, consider a professional Traverse City bathroom remodeling service. These experts understand local trends and have the skills to bring your bathroom dreams to life.
- Kitchen Remodel
Kitchens are the heart of the home, so a kitchen remodel can pay off big time! Think about incorporating some clever kitchen technology such as smart appliances, touchless faucets, and clever under-cabinet lighting, which can make your space feel both luxurious and user-friendly. When designing your layout, make sure there are wide walkways. This helps the kitchen feel spacious and makes it easy for multiple people to work at the same time.
Don’t underestimate the power of light in your kitchen. Big windows, bright overhead lighting, and even some fun accent lights make a world of difference. And while neutrals are a safe bet, don’t be afraid to play with colors in your kitchen. A vibrant backsplash, a bold island, or even colorful appliances can add a ton of personality.
- Paint the Place
A fresh coat of paint is one of the quickest and most budget-friendly ways to completely transform a fixer-upper. A new paint job can hide imperfections, brighten up dingy rooms, and give the whole house a modern feel.
Here are a few tips for choosing the perfect paint colors:
- Go Neutral: Stick with light neutrals like white, beige, or soft grays. These appeal to a wide range of buyers and make rooms feel more spacious.
- Test it Out: Always get paint samples and test them on the wall in different lighting conditions before committing.
- Don’t Forget Trim: Crisp white trim adds a polished touch, especially against colorful walls.
With a bit of effort and the right colors, you can completely change the vibe of your fixer-upper!
- Curb Appeal
First impressions count! Give your home’s curb appeal a major makeover to attract buyers and boost value. Start with simple things: make your house number bold and easy to read. Spruce up your landscaping – trim bushes, add colorful flowers, and lay down fresh mulch.
A fresh coat of paint on your front and garage doors instantly adds a welcoming touch. Don’t forget the power of outdoor lighting! It highlights your home at night and adds a layer of security. If your siding is faded or damaged, consider a total refresh for a big impact.
A stylish fence adds privacy and defines your outdoor space. And finally, planting trees is a beautiful investment – they bring shade, privacy, and greenery to your yard.
- Energy Efficient Upgrades
Energy-efficient homes are in demand, and for good reason! They save you money on bills and make your home more comfortable. Focus on upgrades like energy-efficient appliances, which look just as great as their power-hungry cousins, and a programmable thermostat that lets you adjust temperatures even when you’re away.
Boosting your insulation also traps warm or cool air inside, keeping your home cozy year-round. Also, focus on lighting! Switching to stylish, efficient bulbs cuts down on energy use. If your heating and air conditioning (HVAC) system is on its last legs, replacing it with a modern one saves a fortune.
Leaky windows are another major energy drain, so consider upgrading them for style and savings. Finally, if you’re ready to take things to the next level, explore the benefits of solar power! It can seriously slash your energy bills and might even qualify for incentives.
- Smart Storage Solutions
Fixer-uppers often have interesting layouts, but that can sometimes mean awkward storage spaces. Get creative to make the most of every nook and cranny! Here are some clever storage solutions to consider:
- Customizable Shelving Units: These adaptable units offer great versatility. Adjust shelf heights to fit your needs, accommodating everything from books to bulky items.
- Hanging Sections at Multiple Heights: Maximize closet space by installing hanging rods at different levels. This doubles your storage for short items like shirts and creates space for longer garments below.
- Floating Shelves: These give the illusion of more space and are perfect for displaying décor or books. Install them in tight corners or above doorways to utilize often-wasted areas.
- Corner Shelves: Transform unused corners into functional storage spaces. Opt for tiered corner shelves to display treasures or stash everyday necessities.
- Library-style Wall Units: Add a touch of sophistication and massive storage potential with a custom-built or modular library wall unit. These blend beauty and function seamlessly.
With some clever planning, you can turn your fixer-upper into a storage haven, increasing both functionality and the overall appeal of your home.
Conclusion
Renovating a fixer-upper is an exciting project! Focus on the updates that add the most value, and don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through in the updates. A little DIY know-how and some smart design choices help keep budgets in check. Remember, it’s not just about the renovation; it’s about creating a home that you absolutely love in a place that feels like paradise. So go ahead and transform that fixer-upper into the house of your dreams!
