Many people are choosing to renovate their homes instead of moving
With summer activities winding down, it’s a good time to think about internal home renovations. Summer weather is great for exterior jobs like roofing, deck work and landscaping. Now the attention can turn to the interior to increase both functionality and your home’s value.
Three popular home renovation trends to consider:
1. Creating an open concept environment. If you live in an older home, chances are you have formal, individual rooms. Today’s homeowner typically prefers a more informal layout with one room blending into another. Improved sight lines across each level can help you watch the kids and facilitate a better experience for guests. With smaller homes, an open concept creates the feel of a larger, brighter, airier space. The trick is to match the home’s structure and your traffic patterns with a floor plan that delivers the right flow while accounting for supporting walls and beams, electrical wiring, plumbing and ductwork.
2. Building an in-law suite. If you want your parents (or in-laws) to live with you, consider an in-law suite. This setup allows you to enjoy being together while also respecting boundaries, independence and privacy. If you need to build an extension rather than convert existing space, consult your area’s building codes to see what you’re allowed to do. You’ll also want to check your plumbing and power sources – and heating and air conditioning capacity – to ensure you can create the suite you want.
3. Incorporating smart home technology. These days, in-home technology goes beyond standard security systems. You can renovate your home to make everyday living safer and more convenient. WiFi-enabled appliances let you control certain functions from anywhere in the house, for example. Smart home technology can use sensors to detect water leaks and turn off the water. Smart thermostats detect extreme temperature changes that may indicate furnace or air conditioner issues. Since smart locks can be monitored remotely, if your home isn’t secured you can activate the lock on your mobile device. Technology continues to evolve, so use it to your advantage at home.