There’s nothing like autumn in Laramie, Wyoming. As the air grows cooler and the leaves begin to change, we welcome back our university students, which totally transforms the vibe of the city. Though the turning of the seasons feels cozy and slow, day-to-day life picks up speed. Everyone knows we’re about to lose the last of the year’s warmth, so whenever we can, we put on our jackets and walk in the sunshine.
While it’s not quite as glamorous as hiking through the brightly-colored woods, now is also the perfect time to consider sprucing up your home. When the snow starts, the last thing you want to do is start a major project (or leave your toasty-warm house to gather supplies). So, whether you’re preparing your home to sell or just hunkering down until spring, autumn renovations can be incredibly rewarding.
As a realtor, one upgrade that I recommend to my clients is new flooring. People don’t often look up, but they do look down, so the floor is the first thing buyers notice when I’m giving house tours. It’s also the first thing people ask about before a showing. How old is the carpet? Does the vinyl need to be replaced? Would the seller consider refinishing the hardwood? For many buyers, flooring is a deciding factor. To make a great first impression, you’ll want to be sure that yours is in good condition.
If you’re prepared to invest a bit more into your home, I always suggest beginning with its heart. Renovating your kitchen may sound like a total hassle, but whether you’re planning to stay or sell, it might be worth your energy. New appliances, countertops, and cabinets can completely transform your space. Or, if you’re on a budget, consider replacing your hardware and light fixtures with something more modern. Renovations don’t have to be complicated—just strategic.
To soak up more of that autumn sunshine and give your property the WOW factor, focus on your outdoor living space. Raised garden beds, new patio furniture, a fire pit, fun lighting… the possibilities are endless. If you have sports enthusiasts in your family and enough space to work with, you can even create a designated area for basketball, golf, etc.
Though I’m not an expert contractor, I can tell you from experience that these upgrades make a huge difference in your home’s value. Whether you’re planning to sell or stay put, this type of work is never in vain. Hopefully, these suggestions can help you decide where to begin (long before we’re buried in snow!).