Top Ways to Boost Home Value Before a Refinance or Sale

So, you're thinking about selling your home or maybe refinancing to tap into some sweet equity? Well, good news — there are some smart (and surprisingly fun) ways to boost your home’s value without bulldozing the entire place with a backhoe. Whether you're working with a general contractor, home builders, or doing some DIY magic, here are top upgrades that'll make your home irresistible to buyers and lenders.

1. Start With Curb Appeal: First Impressions Count!

Before they even see your beautiful floor plan, buyers are judging that fascia, that flashing, and whether your frieze board (bird block) is looking like it’s been through five earthquakes and a toddler birthday party. Paint, power wash, and trim those trees. Bonus points if your contractor knows how to design passive house elements like deep overhangs for shade.

Want to go the extra mile? Add a modern porch light and some native landscaping. Lenders and buyers alike love a house that screams, “I’m well-maintained!”

2. Upgrade That Kitchen (It’s Always the Kitchen)

Nobody wants to refinance a house with avocado-green countertops from the Nixon era. A minor kitchen remodel — think updated appliances, refreshed cabinets, and floating shelves — can bring major ROI. If you’re working with a custom home builder or construction company, they’ll help align your design with your blueprints and CAD renderings.

And don’t forget: kitchens = cost codes galore. Make sure you track each change order and daily report so your paperwork stays tight.

3. Refresh the Bathrooms (And Say Goodbye to Mildew)

Bathrooms are the silent deal-breakers. New tile, updated fixtures, a fire-resistive vent fan, and moisture-resistant green board (pressure-treated lumber) behind the walls will go a long way. If your tub is looking tired, a construction worker with a knack for tile can make it look spa-ready with new felt (underlayment), waterproof flashing, and sleek finishes.

4. Get Smart About Energy Efficiency

Installing forced air heating/cooling systems, energy-efficient windows, or even solar panels makes your home more appealing and could qualify you for green refi incentives. Pair this with damp proofing in the basement and you'll show buyers and appraisers that you know what’s up.

Bonus points for using glulam (glued laminated beams) or sustainable materials. Hello, green building bragging rights!

5. Foundation Check — The Deal Maker or Breaker

We’re talking footer (footing) inspections, crack repairs, and making sure your foundation isn’t shifting because of expansive soils. If you’re hearing words like “heaving” or “settlement,” call a general contractor immediately. No one wants a surprise after the inspection.

Pro tip: If you're planning any flatwork like patios or walkways, make sure your crew uses ready mix concrete and double-checks the grade and form for proper drainage.

6. Update Lighting & Electrical (GFCI = Good For Clean Interiors)

Add recessed lights, switch to dimmers, and for the love of safety, update those outlets with GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) protection. If your panel is older than your dog, you might want to bring in a licensed contractor to upgrade it.

Also, show off any tech upgrades. Smart thermostats and energy monitoring are modern-day flexes.

7. Fix the Flow: Open It Up!

Sometimes it’s not about adding space — it’s about making it feel bigger. Knock down a non-load-bearing wall (consult the framing specs on your blueprints first), open up the living/dining area, or widen a doorway. The key is improving the floor plan flow.

Work with builders who use BIM (building information modeling) to see 3D visuals of your space before you commit.

8. Roof, Gutters & All That Glam

Replacing shingles might not be sexy, but a roof that leaks isn’t either. Update your gable, replace that sagging fascia, and make sure your roof layers are protected with felt (underlayment) and solid flashing. Buyers (and appraisers) will notice.

Pro tip: Add gutters that direct water away from your foundation. It’s a small thing with a big impact.

9. Add a Fresh Coat of Paint

It’s simple, cost-effective, and works like magic. Go for neutral colors that complement your grade and grain of materials. Keep the exterior updated too — it’s the form that speaks to the foundation of your design.

10. Keep Records — Like a Boss

If you’re working with a construction company or custom home builders, ask for copies of each bid, cost-plus contract, and daily report. These docs are your best friend when it comes to appraisals, inspections, or showing a buyer how meticulous you’ve been.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re prepping for a refi or putting that “For Sale” sign out front, investing in the right updates can pay off big. With the help of a reliable general contractor, some smart design choices, and maybe a few sweaty days on the construction site, you can turn your current place into someone’s dream home — or into equity that works for you.

Ready to start building value? EH Construction can help with everything from bathroom remodels to new foundations, and everything in between. Contact us today and let’s turn your goals into blueprints.