You are anticipating a “decent” tax refund this year, and wish to improve your home and surroundings as well as the economic status by investing in home improvements. Good for you! Here are some ideas that will let you enjoy your home with a fresh look and perhaps leave a little “change in your pocket.” These steps are affordable with the average tax refund, depending on what you wish to accomplish. 1. Congress has extended energy efficiency tax credits for most homeowners through the end of 2010, so if you’ve been looking to upgrade your water heater or windows and doors, you can probably still get a tax credit in the coming year. So what does this mean? For any qualified upgrade, the tax credit is 30 percent of the covered cost up to a $1,500 total credit.
2. Your home’s cosmetic appearance raises curb appeal. Consider hiring a landscaper to add plants, planters, or create a pleasant walkway. Hire an electrician to install attractive front area lighting. If it’s been a few years since you painted, a new coat of exterior paint can refresh the home, selecting one of the latest, popular new exterior colors. If you are considering selling, curb appeal is what brings the potential buyer into the home, they don’t just drive by.
3. If you need more living space for you and the kids, but would rather not move, consider expanding by utilizing the garage space. Build a Butler’s Pantry in the garage, add a game room and bar area and/or upgrade the concrete floor with a finished epoxy paint or outdoor carpeting.
4. Extra living space can also be created in your backyard, converting the traditional patio slab into an outdoor living room. Many local area homes now boast a cushioned furniture set around a fireplace, built into the back wall of the house, complete with a marble hearth and attractive mantel. Install a large screen television above the mantel, and purchase an outdoor heater for those cool evenings. Add a barbeque and bar area off to the side, and you’ll love staying home every weekend!
For additional information or to reach prescreened contractors for bidding, please contact Bonnie with Homeowners Referral Network at 661-296-4291. You may also visit our website at www.HomeOwnersRN.com.