
Whether you're a new homeowner or you've moved in years ago, there are probably a lot of items on your to-do list. Nobody can tackle them all at once, and they can quickly pile up if you don't stay on top of things.
There's no shame in that. We're all so busy and there's only so much money to go around. Nevertheless, money doesn't always have to be a barrier to certain upgrades. Even making a few, relatively smaller investments can pay off big time and actually make a significant difference.
Do you want to improve the vibe of your home? How about your comfort and safety? Or perhaps you're looking to up the resale value without breaking the bank.
If any of these sound like music to your ears, it's time to get busy. Set some time and money aside to jump on these four home investments that you might not have thought about.
1. The Grass Is Always Greener
One of the best ways to improve how you feel about your home is not even inside your home. Look to the outside and consider a big overhaul to your landscaping. Especially if you have any sizable property, it's amazing how much a simple investment can make everything look and feel much better. New sod, colorful flowers, and a few bushes can completely change the ambiance. It is an amazing bang for your buck, and, unlike a kitchen overhaul, you can do it in sections over a few summers to keep costs in check if you want.
2. The King of Comfort
It's amazing how many people don't value their own rest. It's a cliché, but you really do — or, at least, you should — spend one-third of your life sleeping. What is more important than that? Rather than do everything they can to upgrade this experience, however, so many people sleep on old, lumpy mattresses that leave them tossing and turning. Invest in the best mattress you can afford. You can't put a price on health and wellness.
3. Staying Safe and Sound
Safety is something people tend to be lazy about. It feels like an extra expense that you don't get anything out of. So they try to check off that box with as little money and time as possible — then focus on the fun stuff. This is foolish. Your loved ones' lives and all your possessions are on the line. Besides, it isn't even a big investment! Really, it comes down to simply researching to find the best and isn't a major expenditure. Put a high priority on smart smoke, carbon monoxide, and water leak detection monitoring. It is a small investment that you will never regret.
4. Making Strategic Renovations
If you plan to live in your current home forever, do anything you want. Put a lime green Jacuzzi in the bathroom and wall-to-wall shag carpet in the living room. If, however, you want to sell sometime in the near future, focus on the type of renovations with proven return on investment. Don't do anything too drastic or polarizing, and instead upgrade your light fixtures, hardware, cabinets, molding, and countertops. You can tastefully re-do the bathroom, too, but a lot of smaller upgrades — even as simple as a new coat of paint — can help raise the resale value significantly.
Smart Home Investments that Make a Difference
Home improvement can be a difficult hobby. There is so much you can do that it's often hard to figure out what you should do. The best option is to stick to areas that you know will make a real difference in your life.
Think about overhauling your landscaping, upgrade your mattress immediately if necessary, keep your family safe with smart smoke detection, and look for smaller renovations that come with ROI.
These definitely aren't the only home investments a person can make. But they are certainly some of the best — and the most painless — options that you can get done quickly and affordably.