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Buying a home is an investment, and maintaining and raising property value over the years is crucial to keeping that investment healthy. Your house isn’t just a home to rest your head and shelter your family, it’s also a guarantee of money. Should tragedy one day strike and cause the need for large amounts of money, your home is the one piece of property you can always count on to be bankable.

Of course, the higher your property value, the better off you’ll be should such a situation arise. If you are a homeowner desiring a secure future, it is all the more important that you take steps to maintain and increase your property value in the long run. Even if that tragedy never strikes, should you decide to sell your home, you’ll be more than happy that you’ve kept your value up.

Increasing your curb appeal is one of the most effective ways at increasing your property value. The actual market value of a home is often affected by it’s perceived value. Not to mention, it normally leads to a more speedy sale!

Not only that, but a good landscape design can add as much as 20% to your property value and even save you money on heating and cooling costs. However, many homeowners bungle landscaping efforts by not seriously planning the improvements. To take full advantage of what landscaping can do for your property value, either hirer a professional or at least do some MAJOR research.

Other outdoor improvements that can increase your property value include painting or re-siding the home and making sure all gutters and clean and in working condition. Fencing in a yard can often create a larger demand for a property and good outdoor lighting adds a feel of security. Make sure the parking areas are clear and clean, no muddy puddles, and that potholes are filled in.

Improvements to the inside of your home can also help raise your property value. For one, homes with central air conditioning are almost always preferred. Kitchens are another biggie - most buyers want spacious kitchens. Even if your kitchen is a bit small, you can give the illusion of space by using shelves and hanging racks and keeping it clear of clutter.

Maintenance is probably the #1 way to keep your property value up. Don’t leave things damaged or broken and be sure to replace fixtures as needed - whether it’s window screens, lights or water fixtures. Keep in mind that cosmetic changes like new paint and carpets are a matter of opinion and therefore have little to no affect on property value.

As always, do your own research before jumping right into home improvements. Treat your property value like your credit score - check on it on a regular basis and slowly but surely do things to improve it. By putting some of these tips into practice, you can easily increase your property value throughout the years.