Summer Projects to Enjoy & Increase Home Resale Value

As spring moves along and it warms up now is the time to plan projects outside your home. Summer is an ideal time to get outside and invest your time and resources in a project that you can enjoy and will also pay back when it comes time to sell your home. We recommend investing in these top outdoor home improvements:

1. Building a Patio or Deck – A deck or patio not only adds visual interest and enjoyment, it is also a way to add to the resale value of your home. Be sure to plan well ahead and to check your municipal building requirements as a building permit may be required for decks above a certain size and height. Learn more at the City of Ottawa – do I need a building permit for a deck?

2. Clean siding, windows, patio, caulk where required – A fresh exterior of your home will make it shine, from siding, soffits, patio stones, to windows and doors. Updating caulking around windows, doors and exhaust pipes also protects against potential problems down the road.

3. Install a Sprinkler System – On average, homeowners use 50 per cent more water than necessary on their lawns. This increases hydro bills and may subject your basement to seepage and your garden from damage from over watering. Automatic lawn sprinkler systems are designed to allow proper irrigation through timing and even water distribution.

4. Landscape your Property -Landscaping is a great way to add visual interest to an outdoor living space. Whether planning a garden or planting some trees and shrubs, landscaping often results in a significant return on your investment. Trees and shrubs are a great way to add privacy to a property, remember they take time to grow, so better to do in the early years of being at a new home. A new counter in the kitchen and bathroom can be done in winter months.

5. Build of Repair a Fence –  Defining the limits of your property is important for a variety of reasons, including privacy and safety. Considering your specific needs will help you to choose the right fence, whether that be pvc or wood. Ultimately, the fence has to fit with how you use your yard, ongoing maintenance and budget.

6. Reshingle a Tired Roof – A strong, durable roof is an essential component of your home’s overall health and functionality. If your roof is showing signs of wear, such as raised shingles or water seepage, choosing a qualified roofing contractor to inspect the roof and provide a quote is a good first step. Also consider eavestroughing if not already installed, this will help protect your foundation.

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