Every home has a potential level of aesthetic and practical achievement it can reach. Whether you’re looking to sell in the near future or just want to add value and equity for your own purposes, there are simple ways to do so. The key is to not get caught up in expensive and complex improvements that don’t exactly return on your investment.

To help your home truly meet its potential (for you, or future owners), KSL and Giant Carpet One offer six simple improvements:

1. Upgrades for you

It seems backward, but if you’re happy with your home, it’s likely that potential buyers will be too. Décor and aesthetics may not be the whole ballgame, but they certainly pique interest and help you feel comfortable. If you want specific furniture, artwork or window treatments, make a list and place for these improvements in your budget.

2. Upgrades for them

“Them” could entail your home or the people you’re hoping will buy it. Either way, some mega value-adding improvements or upgrades to your home include:

• Creating space (both open floor plan as well as storage space)
• Painting (could be spot painting or selected rooms to neutralize colors)
• Landscaping to create a clean and well-kept curb appeal
• Bath and kitchen updates on a small scale

  Notice bath and kitchen updates are listed, but this doesn’t mean to lose sight of what you really want: a return on your investment. Focus on refacing kitchen cabinets rather than replacing them, or put some time and a small amount of money to refresh your bathroom’s design and look. Remember, the upgrades should be simple and affordable. If your budget is an issue, stick to one small upgrade per month or save for something bigger that you do each year. 3. Remodel to stay or sell

For a lot of homeowners, the choice to remodel is more often a matter of being happy staying where you are now. Remodels aren’t encouraged for those about to sell their homes since most drastic changes will be redone by the new owner anyway. If selling, focus on small changes that amp up your curb appeal and value. If staying, go ahead and do the remodel if it means making yourself happy with where you are currently.

With a remodel, you won’t have to risk an expensive move you’ll regret or real estate closing costs.

4. Maintain, maintain, maintain

Old and new homes alike require regular maintenance. This could mean winterizing your outdoor sprinkler system each year or simply fixing things when (or before) they break. The roof, plumbing, water heater and appliances should all be in functioning shape if you’re looking to sell. If you own an older home and aren’t sure how long it’s been, hire a home inspector to give you a to-do list.

5. Cleanliness is next to high market value

The truth is, most people are immediately turned off to buying (or walking into) a home that’s dirty or just filled with clutter. In addition, a clean home will also be healthier and safer for your family should you choose to stay. Cleaning could include anything from the baseboards to your home’s exterior. If the carpet has seen better days, it may be a good option to replace it altogether. As you clean, focus on areas that accumulate dirt, dust and clutter (think the garage, closets, the attic and junk drawers).

6. Don’t ignore what’s underfoot

Flooring is one of the most affordable projects you can do to create a big impact on your home’s value. Cleaning carpets can only do so much, so consider how old the flooring is in each room, and what new flooring could do for the whole room. Don’t let a good buyer slip through your fingers because you didn’t replace that turquoise and yellow linoleum in the kitchen. For all your flooring needs, choose Giant Carpet One for great flooring at an affordable price.

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