Thinking about how you can get more out of your home investment? You aren’t alone. Homeowners across the country annually spend more than $300 billion on residential renovations and repairs, according to a recent study released by the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University.

So what are homeowners spending their dollars on? Learn essential improvements that will boost your investment.

Focus on the kitchen

If you are a homeowner wondering how to tackle your long list of potential home improvements, experts say to start in the kitchen. “A ‘modern/updated kitchen’ topped the list of ideal home features in our survey of millennials, registering as most important to more than a third of respondents,” said Consumer Reports.

Simple changes like adding new, stainless steel appliances, a popular quartz countertop and fresh flooring can transform your kitchen without breaking the bank. Add paint to walls or cabinets and your kitchen makeover can be complete well within your budget.

Beautify the bathroom

The look and feel of your home's bathrooms are an area of investment that can invite or repel prospective buyers. “Next to the kitchen, bathrooms are often the most important rooms to update, says BankRate.com.” Worried about the dollars needed to get the job done? Experts suggest simple improvements like: new toilet seats, installing a pedestal sink, upgrading the bathroom vinyl and applying fresh grout to lift value.

Invest in energy-saving technologies

More and more buyers are interested in going green. Energy-saving steps you take could boost your home value more than you might initially realize. “Energy-efficient strategies, including ENERGY STAR appliances and windows and above-code insulation made the most-wanted list and would positively influence the purchase decision of 80 percent or more of all home buyers,” reports the National Association of Home Builders. Other energy-saving changes you can invest in are: automated HVAC systems, tankless water heaters, lighting, and blinds and drapes.

Select energy-efficient windows

ENERGY STAR certified windows can reduce energy bills by 7 to 15 percent, according to data from Consumer Reports. Replacing old windows with newer, energy-efficient ones not only reduces annual heating and cooling costs, but they also can brighten-up your home’s appearance, while also getting rid of drafts that can really give a prospective buyer cold feet.

Maximize your home’s curb appeal

What many homeowners may not realize is a simple washing of the exterior of your home can yield impressive results without costing you very much. “REALTORS say washing a house can add $10,000 to $15,000 to the sale prices of some houses, reports HouseLogic.com. Power washers can be rented to help with the job. A proper window washing — inside and out — can make your house really shine.

Add a fresh coat of exterior paint

After a good washing, curb appeal can be bolstered with a coat of paint. Both you buyer and your appraiser will acknowledge a fresh coat of paint. To save the most money, HouseLogic.com experts recommend repainting the home in the same color. If you decide to change the existing color, consider the tones in your neighborhood. Appraisers will actually deduct value from homes that are painted in a color that has a little too much zing.

Make a good first impression — how’s your yard looking?

Another strong influencer on a home’s curb appeal is the state of the landscape, but don’t go overboard. “While maintaining a well-kept lawn is usually smart, don’t expect extras like elaborate designs, paver stones, or fountains to hold their value,” appraiser Jim Murrett, tells Time.com.

Replace your garage doors

An item historically low on homeowners’ lists of projects are garage doors, but new data suggests they deserve a spot on the top tier. Garage doors were shown in Remodeling Magazine’s 2018 Cost vs. Value report to deliver the best value of all. (Replacing your entry door was also high on the report for projects that will give you a great turn on your investment.)

Make interior rooms shine with new paint

Updating the look and feel of your home can best be accomplished with some cans of paint. “Painting a room or two is regularly cited as one of the quickest and most cost-effective ways a prospective seller can get the most money for their home,” reports Time.com. Save money by painting the rooms on your own. When choosing your paint colors remember to stay with a neutral color palette to avoid putting off a prospective buyer with too much color.

Homes are often one of our biggest investments, but with a little effort, they can become one of our biggest assets. Make a list of projects your house could benefit from, then roll up your sleeves and get to work.

Not sure where to start? How about your windows? AMSCO Windows can give you a two-for-one jump on your goals by helping you improve energy efficiency and curb appeal at the same time.

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