As 2022 begins, the real estate market is still going strong. Many of us have moved into a new home or are planning to sell our current one. So, there isn’t a better time than now to consider what features and renovations can maximize property value both in the long and short term.
Below you will see a variety of experts from interior designers to real estate agents to learn what’s currently appealing to homeowners and buyers. From specific spaces in the home that have become essential to the small details that make a big difference, here are 8 ways to add value to your home in 2022.
Updated Kitchens And Bathrooms
Renovating a kitchen or bathroom is a great way to instantly increase the value of a home, according to Christopher Peacock, Founder and CEO of Christopher Peacock. However, it’s important to choose quality materials because cabinetry in particular is subject to a great deal of wear and tear. “Without question, renovating a kitchen or bath space with well-made, quality cabinetry will always add value to a home,” he says.
Storage
Any type of extra storage, whether it’s a farmhouse shed, a beautifully designed walk-in closet in the master bedroom, or a pantry in a city apartment can increase the value. It’s also a smart upgrade that won’t be falling out of favor any time soon. “A feature I think will add value in 2022 is an often underappreciated pantry closet. 2021 and 2022 taught us that beyond storage for clothing, we all need more storage than we think for living supplies— think extra shelf-stable food, paper towels, and Covid tests,” says real estate agent Allison Chiaramonte.
Dedicated Home Offices
While many of us have been hoping for life to get back to normal, the days of working nine to five in the office aren’t exactly here again. Many companies have also gone to a hybrid model, requiring employees to go in just a few days per week. So, a home office is still essential in 2022 and likely will be for years to come. “Almost two years since the pandemic began, many of us have spent so much time at home that living and working spaces can no longer be distinguished, leading to the re-emergence of the home office as people re-evaluate how and where they spend their time.
Outdoor Space
In this Covid age, it is very important to homeowners to have an outdoor space. Whether that be building a new patio or revamping a terrace with a bistro table and chairs, We think this is something buyers will continue to prioritize when looking for a new home. As we continue to navigate this new normal, it is valuable to have these spaces to be able to safely gather with loved ones.
Wellness Spaces And Home Gyms
“Wellness is now the most important request to add value to a home,”
“Spa-like master bathrooms and well-equipped Home gyms that include luxurious materials [should have] top-of-the-line equipment. These spaces are meant to give the client the seclusion and privacy they desire. We’ve seen a rise in companies that provide products that meet these standards, both in bathware and also lines of beautifully designed gym equipment, to cater to almost any activity.”
Laundry Rooms
Everyone needs clean clothing and having the space to do laundry can add value to your home. Having a sink, line for hanging delicates, a table for folding, and shelves for all the accouterments ameliorates this often daily task. “Well-outfitted laundry rooms will be at the top of the list along with a well-thought-out location. Outfitting it with organization and storage and in a convenient location will make a big impact.
Authentic Sustainability
While sustainability is a major trend we will see in 2022, Lotta Lundaas, Founder and CEO of Norse Interiors is a proponent of authentic sustainability. “I will maintain my focus on authentic sustainability and find a new use for old furniture and décor. To add value, I’ll be putting in natural hardwood floors in my home, which can be refinished with time and is an excellent way to revive the whole space in one go.”
Fine Architectural Details
We are big lovers of adding architectural features to beef up style and make your home look and feel more custom. Think arched built-ins or doorways, Venetian plaster on range hoods or fireplaces, or millwork in bedrooms, bathrooms, and hallways. The idea is to take a builder-grade space and lay on the charm with timeless accents that will add value to your home for years to come.”
Jeremy Kamm, an agent for Warburg Realty, tells us stylish ceiling fans are a great example of this “The more time we spend in our homes as a result of the pandemic, the more we need extra comforts. Nevertheless, many of us still would not want to compromise the integrity of our designs and aesthetics for the sake of functionality, so our design and function implementations need to exist in symbiosis. I have found many buyers looking for artistic ceiling fans in rooms for added air circulation throughout the day. It’s a feature that many comment that they will install if it does not already exist— higher ceilings, therefore come with the territory for a generally airier overall feeling.”