Eight Ways to Spend Your Tax Refund at Home

It is April, so you know what that means? It means many of you may have just gotten or are anticipating getting a tax refund! If you're getting one, congratulations, and keep reading! If you're not, you may still enjoy reading the list or using money you've saved for one of these projects:

1. Outdoor living. The scope of this will vary from house to house, but building or adding onto a deck or patio to create an outdoor living space can really make a difference. Once you've got the place to stand, work on some seating and eating arrangements. Chairs, tables, benches, or built-ins -- you really can't go wrong here. Not only can you and your guests enjoy this space, but potential buyers down the road will almost certainly appreciate the extra space!
2. Plant a garden. This may be a garden of flowers, but it could also be a garden of food! Don't let limited space restrict you; there are companies that specialize in selling supplies for tiered, hanging, and even hydroponic gardens! This project may require ongoing care, but many find gardening to be a great stress reliever or a project the whole family can partake in.
3. Paint, paint, paint! Paint can change everything! I've had clients paint everything - inside, outside, cabinets, picture/mirror frames, sidewalks, furniture -- practically anything can be given a new life with some paint. Painting can be fun, stressful, or both! Just stick with it (or hire someone) and you'll be amazed by the difference. P.S. Contact me for a discount card good at Sherwin-Williams! :-)
4. Flooring. Carpet, hardwood, tile, concrete - there are infinite options for the surfaces you walk on. This can be a big, long-term investment, so be sure to choose something neutral from a manufacturer with a good warranty. Don't skimp on things like carpet padding, hardwood floor underlayment, grout for tile, or baseboard/quarter-round trim -- the smalest11ewasl details can make the biggest difference in the final look and feel of your project.
5. Countertops. This has been one of the more popular upgrades over the last 10 years. I'm starting to have buyers in every price point request to be shown homes with granite in the kitchen or bathrooms. Most new home builders are also now including it in their "standard" package. The right colors, good installation can regular maintenance can make this a lasting investment that keeps you happy and helps you with resale down the road. P.S. If you're in Atlanta, contact me for a referral to a great countertop vendor!
6. Plumbing and Lighting fixtures. Swap out that "builder's chrome" or "brass" for more modern "brushed nickel" or "oil-rubbed bronze." If you can do the work yourself, this can be a very inexpensive project. Even if you have to hire someone, this can be a doable project that makes a difference, particularly when you're able to make everything in a room match. Want to go the extra mile? Replace light switch and outlet covers to match your new fixtures!
7. Appliances. We use them every day - why shouldn't they be pretty to look at, highly functional, and energy efficient? Especially if you have older appliances, this investment can pay for itself with utility rebates and lower ongoing utility costs. Stainless is still popular, but there are some new contenders in the market: White Ice and Bronze. If not the kitchen appliances, consider replacing your washing machine and/or dryer with ones that are more space and energy efficient!
8. Furniture. This one is highly subjective, but if you choose wisely, your furniture can not only be enjoyable for many years to come, it can help you sell your home! How, you may ask? Properly sized and placed furniture can complete a space, define a room, or help a future buyer understand how to use the space in your home. Buy furniture that fits your style and always keep an eye out for manufacturer's warranties and hidden delivery, finance, and freight charges to help you stay within budget.

Would a "10% off a purchase at Lowe's" coupon help you get started? Contact me and I'll be happy to get you one.
 
Thanks for reading! Have something you think I missed? I'd love to hear from you! Shoot me an e-mail: Jeff@JeffSellsGeorgia.com or visit me online at http://www.JeffSellsGeorgia.com