Located in the heart of Brooklyn, Cobble Hill is an upscale, effortlessly trendy area. Classic brownstones line walkable streets and give the area an “old New York” feel. The neighborhood’s culture is effortlessly modern and nicely complements the vintage look of the area.
While Cobble Hill can sometimes be more affordable than other Brooklyn areas, the market remains competitive. In such a competitive market, it can be hard to know which home improvements are a must to boost your home’s ROI. Here are the six ways — big and small — to increase your Cobble Hill home’s ROI.
Bathroom
When it comes to upgrading your home, the bathroom should be one of your priorities. Bathrooms take a lot of wear and tear, and buyers don’t want to see an under-maintained, old-fashioned room in an otherwise lovely Cobble Hill home. A full bathroom remodel can range anywhere from $5,000 to $25,000, with tubs/showers taking up the bulk of the expenses. If you need to replace your tub, look into soaking tubs. These deeper models range in size and function. High-end models have jacuzzi jets and heated bottoms, which make for a spa experience. Smart toilets are also popular in today’s housing landscape. They include bidets and ergonomic flushing systems, which reduce water waste.
Fixing up your bathroom doesn't have to be a complete redo. Look at your tub — can you re-caulk it, or does it need to be replaced? The same goes for your tiles and sink. Your tiles may just need a professional clean, or they may benefit from fresh grout. Grouting your own tiles is relatively easy and low-cost. A bathroom renovation usually yields a recoup rate of about 67%, making the investment worthwhile.
Kitchen
The kitchen is another room where first impressions are key. A full kitchen remodel can range from $5,000 to over $30,000, depending on your vision. However, you don’t need to start fresh with your Cobble Hill kitchen. A few simple updates might just do the trick.
As with any room, a fresh coat of paint can make a big difference. You can also sand and paint your cabinets (unless you’re looking to renovate them entirely). Cool whites and dark greys are neutral and very popular this year. They add a fresh look to any room. Be conscious of adding sleek, modern touches and in-demand appliances — especially if your home has a high value. Consider an induction stovetop and some beautiful glass countertops. Depending on how much you’re looking to spend, a minor kitchen remodel can yield a recoup of over 80%.
Exterior
Your Cobble Hill home’s exterior can be a huge benefit (or drawback) to potential buyers. Your home can be beautiful on the inside, but first impressions will dictate a buyer’s opinion. Many of the homes in Cobble Hill are brownstones. If yours is, take a look at the bricks and repair any damage. You can also whitewash your home to give the bricks a boost.
No matter the home’s exterior material, you’ll want to add charming, welcoming touches. Brightly painted doors immediately catch the eye and are in right now, so consider some fun colors — yellow, purple, blue, or anything that will make your door “pop.” If your home isn’t brick, consider repainting the entire thing, or even just the trim. Crisp, freshly painted trim unites the home and makes for a finished look. The average ROI on these small but crucial improvements is about 95%.
New Windows
Windows also make a first impression, and replacing your windows is especially important if you live in a very cold or very warm climate. Buyers like to see energy-efficient windows, which can save you $500/year in heating and cooling costs. Consider the many options on the market and compare prices. You may also be able to receive a tax rebate for your energy-efficient windows! Window replacement has a typical recoup of 89%.
Common Space Decor
Just as Cobble Hill blends old-time charm with modern elegance, so should your home’s interior. You want potential buyers to be able to see themselves in your home without being distracted by your existing decorations. Start by decluttering; that means getting rid of any loose papers, personal belongings, or pet toys. The idea isn’t to make your home look sterile but to make room for a new owner’s vision. Throw or give things away, or rent a storage unit for things you want to keep.
When it comes to the living areas, investing in a few new pieces can transform a space. A new rug not only looks clean but is an opportunity to redesign the room around the colors in the rug. Put some new throw pillows on the couch. Rearrange the furniture in a comfortable way so the space looks open and ready to entertain. Put some flowers on the coffee table and let in as much light as you can. These minor updates can yield a 66% recoup.
Master Bedroom
The master bedroom is another room where buyers want to envision themselves feeling at home and comfortable. Pay attention to modern trends when redecorating and remodeling. Neutral colors, unique hanging lights, and discreet but spacious storage units are all popular. A well-lit bedroom is also important, so update the light fixtures with something chic and modern. Rip up any old carpet and replace it with hardwood and tastefully placed area rugs. You can also paint the walls or just the molding.
Take advantage of any natural light by adding a little sitting area or reading nook. A comfortable chair will change up the room’s texture and add a homey vibe. A clean, neutral bedspread and some crisp throw pillows will make the room look coordinated and add a neat final touch.
If you’re ready to explore the best of Brooklyn real estate, contact Steven Szczur today to pursue all your real estate dreams! From Park Slope real estate to Williamsburg homes for sale, Steven and his team will use their years of experience to help you navigate the New York City luxury real estate market.
