It is possible to increase the value of a home, but sometimes renovations can become a deal breaker. Homes that are consistent in style and finishes are generally worth more than those that display different influences. Residential appraisers often say that a true value killer is a remodel that is not finished.

The appeal of the house has to be consistent. It is possible to increase the value of an older home by keeping up appearances. Appraisers have a system that takes into account both age and maintenance, for example, C1 indicates that the property is new. C2 means any age if recently renovated, C3 well maintained, C4 adequately maintained with minimal repairs, C5 deliverable but needs help, and C6 serious defects.

If you have white appliances in your kitchen, it’s not good for your home’s value to invest in a stainless steel dishwasher. It is highly recommended that if you renovate, you don’t get modern countertops while you still have old appliances. It’s best to do enough so that the appraiser can classify the changes as a new kitchen or an updated kitchen.

Neighbors don’t have to be human to hurt your home’s value. A power station, a school or a cemetery can reduce the price of a property. If you let garden art get out of hand or have too much Elvis, you have a value killer.

Homeowners often have to choose between an improvement they would really love to own and one that would prove to be a better investment. If your home is on the market or you want to refinance, you can take steps to make sure you get credit for the improvements you’re planning.

Home for sale ads often emphasize kitchen features like stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and travertine tile. This is a good guide to current features and trends in popular cuisine. Real estate agents advertise properties they know are in demand. This is also a great guide if you plan to update your kitchen.

Kitchen features that are currently in high demand include:

• Cabinets: Maple is currently the most popular. It used to be cherry cabinets, but Maple topped them this year.

• Popular colors for kitchens are gray and beige.

• The contemporary design style is not as popular anymore. Shaker style is now the new trend.

• Granite and quartz countertops remain the most popular kitchen feature and continue to be the number one choice.

• Energy efficient LED lighting is the most popular.

The best designers often recommend repairing cabinets rather than replacing them. This is cheaper and you can only change the cabinet doors, while the original cabinet structure remains the same. Wood floors are popular. The least expensive options for hardwood flooring are engineered wood flooring made with a plywood underlayment with a real hardwood veneer.

Lights are essential kitchen features and are recommended for any well-designed kitchen. The lights can be installed in strategic places to create a soft atmosphere.

Another hot trend for 2014 is commercial-style stoves and other useful built-in appliances. Stainless steel appliances continue to be the most sought after in kitchens. Stainless steel appliances are in high demand and can add value and convenience to your home, but updates need to be consistent throughout the kitchen. Stainless steel appliances can do little to add value if your vinyl flooring dates to the 1960s. A kitchen island is a near-essential and a winner for most homebuyers.

A fresh coat of interior paint in a neutral color can add value to a home. Get expert advice from your estate agent before settling on colour. Vinyl floors are outdated. Try ditching the vinyl by replacing it with laminate flooring or ceramic tile. Homebuyers also prefer granite countertops over laminate countertops. Countertops can be replaced with ceramic tile if granite countertops are too expensive. A large window over the kitchen sink is also a good idea, space permitting.

Curb appeal is a very important aspect if you plan to sell your home. Painting the exterior of your home is always a good place to start improvements. Choose a color that matches the period of your home. You would like your home to make a good first impression. Note the peeling paint and the blinds hanging lopsided. A well-kept and attractive front lawn will add value to your home.

Some improvements may make the home more attractive, but will not significantly increase the resale value. A large, expensive remodel, such as adding a second story, may not add value if the home is located in a small-home neighborhood.

Create a well-designed living room with great ideas.

You can set up a cozy atmosphere in the living room using your imagination. The living room is often the first area visitors will see and should make them feel at home. You can create a well-designed area with great ideas that reflect your personality. New ideas will inspire you. We’ll take a look at space, color, furniture arrangement, lighting, windows, fireplace, a centerpiece, and how to personalize it.

The following ideas are easy and affordable.

• Paint always works wonders in a room. Use warm, neutral colors for the living room. You can use bright colors, as long as they match.

• Leave room for traffic in your living room.

• Furniture should be placed according to space.

• Lighting is an important complement to highlight some areas. Dramatic lighting usually creates the most amazing atmosphere.

• A large window will allow the flow of natural light and provide a beautiful view of the garden.

• Decorate the fireplace.

• Invest in a beautiful painting or large mirror.

• Add exciting ideas and details in your living room. Place pictures, vases, and sculptures where they are best seen.

• Place a bouquet of fresh flowers on the coffee table.

It’s always a good idea to invest in more timeless vases, sculptures and lamps. Fashion trends are expensive and don’t last long. Plan ahead before spending money on paint or light fixtures.

The living room is the most popular area in a house. You have to be comfortable with the ideas as you will most likely be spending a lot of time in the room. Try to stay in touch with the style that you would like in the living room.

If you plan to sell your home, make improvements before it goes on the market or before the real estate agent arrives. Try not to leave evidence that you are busy fixing broken windows or tiles. A potential buyer may not be able to envision what the home will look like once it’s finished.

How is your house from outside? Remove clutter from the yard. If your driveway is cracked, now is the time to fix it. Make sure all the windows are sparkling clean and don’t forget the walls. Is your front door clean or does it need a coat of paint or wood protection?

First impressions are important, and the potential buyer will ring the doorbell and have time to look around. It’s a good idea to make sure all exterior lights are working, as the buyer can come and view the home after hours. If there is a pool, it must be spotlessly clean.

When the buyer enters the house, you want the person to see a clean and tidy interior. Make sure carpets and floors are spotless. Messy things should be removed. It is important that your home smells fresh and clean. Bad smells will definitely kill the deal.

Messy rooms appear smaller. Remove all the clutter in the bedrooms. Make sure closets are organized and clean. Clean your kitchen from top to bottom. All appliances must be sparkling clean. Clean your bathrooms, scrub sinks, bathtubs and toilets. Clean mirrors, cabinet handles, and light switch plates.

Some sellers forget to clean the bases and garages. Use cleaning solutions to remove stains from the floor. Once he’s cleared all the clutter, he’s washed and cleaned her house from top to bottom and inside out, her house is ready for the show.