Why undergo a big, daunting renovation? It depends on the person. Many homeowners want to transform a dilapidated fixer upper into their dream space. There are, of course, a few people who want to up their property’s resale value. But, for some, the answer is simple: They want to make a space that improves their day-to-day life.
From routine maintenance to more urgent, emergency issues, owning a home comes with a lot of responsibility. But what if you could have a more symbiotic relationship with your space? What if the upgrades you implement in your home can improve your space, too?
So, we asked a few home improvement experts to help. These pros upgrade homes for a living, so they know which features might actually move the needle in your day-to-day routine. Though their responses run the gamut from smart lighting to a well-engineered garage door, the insights below have one thing in common: They’re all poised to become serious game-changers.
A Really Good Lighting Strategy
We’ll save you the discursive monologue we could write about lighting and just say this: It matters. For aesthetics, yes, but also to help you move throughout your day.
“Lighting affects nearly everything we do at home, such as working, cooking, and even relaxing at night,” explains Brian Meussner, president of Mr. Handyman, a Neighborly company. “Upgrading lighting, including smart lighting and motion-sensor lighting, can give a sense of comfort and improved safety.”
Before you start splurging on smart bulbs or motion-sensored fixtures, make sure you have the basics right. While lounge-worthy areas like the bedroom and living space can benefit from layers of radiance, your kitchen will need tasks lighting so you don’t have to meal prep in the dark.
Automating Your Auto Garage
Michael Brickner—president of Precision Garage Door Service, a Neighborly company—says the best upgrades will happen in the spaces you use every day, but often overlook. For him, of course, that means the garage.
You could paint your garage door to make coming and going a more aesthetically-pleasing experience, but Brickner says the best benefits come when you connect its opener to the home’s Wi-Fi.
“It allows homeowners to open, close, and check the garage door’s status wherever they are located,” he explains. “This will help increase security and safety, especially for those who have driven back home just to check if the garage door is closed.”
Full Home Integration
While you’re at it, why not automate the rest of your home? Ben Kolo of Mr. Electric of Central Iowa, a Neighborly company, says smart spaces are growing in popularity—and rightfully so. “Things like smart switches, dimmers, programmable lighting, video doorbells, smart outlets, and EV chargers help to make everyday tasks more convenient,” he explains. “It gives homeowners greater control over their homes.”
There’s a lot of smart devices out there, so where to begin? Well, baby steps. Even if you’re not ready to fully step into Jetson territory, a smart doorbell or motorized blinds can make a big difference.
Age-Proof Accessories
When most people think about home upgrades, they usually consider the fancy features that will make their lives better in the here and now. However, Meussner encourages you to look ahead. Between the rise of multi-generational homes and independent spaces for older dwellers, age-proof accessories are the gift to future you.
“We help older adults, empty nesters, and those with mobility issues make their home accessible and easier to navigate,” he says. “Some additions can improve independence for homeowners and allow them to remain in their homes longer.”
The bathroom is one of the most common spots to insert age-able add-ons like raised toilet seats, grab bars, and non-slip floors; however, homeowners can also create an accessible foundation with ramps and larger doorways.
A Pest-Proof Perimeter
If you want to level-up your home (and life), don’t forget about your backyard. Anyone with some outdoor space knows how exhausting fending off bugs and rodents can be, which is why you might want to invest in a pest control plan.
“Routine barrier spray services that make a dramatic difference in how homeowners use their outdoor spaces,” explains Shannon Harlow-Ellis of Mosquito Joe, a Neighborly company. “They don’t have to worry about not being able to use their yard due to mosquitoes and other annoying pests.”
Turns out, protecting your outdoor space can be good for the interiors, too. Harlow-Ellis says if you build a formidable fortress—at least on the pest front—you’re less likely to encounter pests in kitchens, bathrooms, garages, and living spaces.
Kelsey Mulvey is a freelance journalist who has over a decade of experience in print and digital media. She covers interior design and lifestyle content for a breadth of publications, including Good Housekeeping, Country Living, House Beautiful, Veranda, and more. Her hobbies include themed spinning classes, Netflix, and nachos.
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