Maybe it’s time to invest in your home
If you’re one of the lucky ones, you’re receiving (or have already received) money back on your tax return this year. Aside from paying off debt or saving the windfall, one of the smartest things you can do is invest in your house, which presents endless possibilities.
If you’re painfully aware of a major systems or structural problem, such as roof or window leaks, heating and air conditioning unit problems, or plumbing malfunctions, those need your attention and money. We recommend you get those projects taken care of quickly. If your house is in good working order, there are a number of ways to spruce it up, improve the safety of your family, and ultimately increase the value of your home.
When it comes to safety issues, we offer the following suggestions for spending your tax return:
•Install and maintain smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors.
•Purchase fire extinguishers for the kitchen.
•Have a professional electrician inspect your home’s wiring system. This should be done every 10 years.
•If you have young children, install safety latches and locks on cabinets and drawers to prevent access to medicines and cleaners.
•Window guards and safety netting for balconies and decks can help prevent serious falls.
•Outlet covers and outlet plates can protect children from electric shock or electrocution.
Once your house is safe, then you can move on to the fun stuff. If you don’t want to spend a bundle, fresh paint is one of the least expensive ways to make a dramatic impact in a room, whether a warm red dining room, a vibrant orange kitchen, a subdued blue powder room, or a luscious purple bedroom. If you don’t like it or grow tired of it, you can always paint again.
And if you plan on selling in the near future, painting will give you the biggest bang for your buck. If you’re painting the exterior of your house, you’ll vastly improve your curb appeal. And if you’re giving your interior some fresh paint, you’ll brighten your rooms and give them a clean, inviting look.
Another way to change the look and feel of your home is to add strategically placed lighting. Lighting can even make a small space feel larger. A mix of lighting in different intensities adds interest and depth to a small space. Today’s decorative lamps and fixtures do more than illuminate. You can choose from decorative sconces, chandeliers, and table and floor lamps in a variety of shapes, styles and finishes that take a room from drab to dramatic with a flick of a switch.
Another way to add value to your home is by landscaping. The right landscape can dramatically increase the value of your home, allowing you to recoup 100 to 200 percent of your investment, according to the Association of Landscape Contractors of America. That’s not all. The U.S. Department of Energy says landscaping is the best long-term investment for reducing heating and cooling costs. According to the American Public Power Association, landscaping can reduce air conditioning costs by up to 50 percent.
Maybe it’s time for new appliances. Products with the Energy Star label deliver the same or better performance as comparable models while using less energy and saving money.
Premier Home Show April 21-23
If it feels like you have too many choices, make a list, detailing the projects you would like to tackle. Bring your list with you to the Spokane Home Builders Association Premier Home Show at the Spokane County Fair and Expo Center April 21-23. Talk with industry experts who can answer all of your questions regarding home improvement and outdoor living needs, as well as provide expert advice and assistance if are considering purchasing a new home or undergoing a remodeling or renovation project.
Industry experts will be on hand all weekend to help you create the home of your dreams. You’ll also enjoy an extensive landscape display, a live plant sale by a local greenhouse, and a special Kids’ Activity Corner with great giveaways for the youngsters. Log onto www.shba.com for discount admission coupons. Watch for the official Show Guide in the Friday, April 21 issue of The Spokesman-Review. The event is proudly sponsored by Country Homes Power and Marquis Spas, Comcast, Washington Trust Home Loan Center, Global Credit Union and Remodel Spokane.