#1) BIG SHOWERS

BIG showers are often on of the BIGGEST selling features in a home!  You don't have to start ripping apart every bathroom in the house though.  Focus on the Master Bathroom.  If you have a shower-tub combination, consider removing the bathtub to create a large, step-in-shower.  Add dual shower heads to finish the modern look.  

 #2) ACCENT TILE

Accent tile in the kitchen and bathrooms can completely transform the home.  Adding tile as a backsplash above the cooking space instantly boosts value & aesthetics.  Consider gutting your shower and bathtub walls and installing subway tile and incorporate a stylish decorative stone, tile or glass border.  Revamp the vanity area to match for a total makeover. 



#3) KITCHEN ISLAND

This goes hand in hand with #6.  One of the best home improvement projects you can do to add value is adding a kitchen island.  No matter how big or small, islands provide a multitude of benefits to the kitchen.  An island creates additional counter space, a bonus place to eat, plus adds storage in under counter cabinets.



#4) BLANK SLATE BACKYARD

Adding the right amount of landscaping to the front yard is ideal for curb appeal, however many buyers prefer a backyard with a blank canvas.  If you've gone overboard with planting, consider removing crowded flowers and transplanting them to pots.  Trim down or remove overgrown shrubs and don't neglect the lawn.  Enjoy the outdoors and do some weeding.  The less crowded the yard is, the easier it is to envision a customized space. 



#5) MODERN RAILINGS

Wrought iron and mixed metal stairway railings are not only trending, but timeless.  Use a combination of wood and metal for a sleek update to your stairs.  Removing a solid wall stairway is a great way to eliminate barriers and open up the living space.  Be sure to pay close attention to safety.  Families with young children worry about falling risks if the banisters and railings are placed closely enough.



#6) OPEN FLOOR PLAN

The first thing you always see on home improvement and renovation shows is the removal of a wall, (or two ... or several), to de-compartmentalize a house.  The days of separate formal dining and family spaces are a thing of the past.  Home buyers today are looking for an open concept floor plan.  If you're looking to get the biggest return on your renovation, call your contractor to see what walls in your home can safely be removed and what additional structural support your home may need.



#7) DARK TILE OR PAINT

Sometimes a little drama is exactly what you need to spice up the living space!  A touch of dark color or patterned tile can add depth and character to any room of the house.  Consider painting an accent wall in the Living Room or installing a river stone floor to your shower for texture and contrast.  



#8) CHIC WALLPAPER

Don't worry, we're not talking about your Grandma's wallpaper from the 50's, 60's and 70's.  Modern wallpaper can transform any wall instantly with faux brick or wood facade.  Add a touch of sophistication to an accent wall in the Maser Bedroom.  Line your wood steps or even embellish your kitchen island with a pop of wallpaper to add a little pizzazz.  Many product lines offer easy apply and removable materials for furnishings.




#9) STATEMENT FIREPLACE

Fireplaces are a HUGE selling feature in a home!  Updating a fireplace enhances not only the appearance of a room, it also adds tremendous value in the long run.  Make a statement and add brick from hearth to ceiling, install a decorative mantel or add natural stone to create a cool setting.  If a potential buyer sees a run-down or out-dated fireplace, they're more likely to be discouraged by the cost to refurbish and repair.  Call your local contractor to check for any external problems that need fixing before it's called out on a Home Inspection Report.