Sometimes, you just have to switch your digs up a bit. This could be something as small as painting an accent wall or it could be a larger project, like adding an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) onto your primary residence.
Whatever your reasoning, it can be a great thing to give your primary dwelling some much-needed TLC. Luckily, there are clever improvements you can make that will give you the overhaul you need.
Incorporate a swimming pool.
Whether you’re looking to amp up your curb appeal or simply want a backyard oasis to escape from hot days, adding a swimming pool can always do a great job of giving homeowners the change they crave. Of course, you need to think more about the pool area than you might have considered. For instance, if you have small children or intend to sell your primary dwelling in the coming years, you’ll want to add in a pool fence, pool covers, or some other type of pool barrier. Safety fences for pools not only increase your resale value but you can easily invest in removable pool fences that level-up your pool safety without compromising your style. Always look for a pool fence that’s the highest quality, like mesh pool fences. Always remember, not every pool safety fence is created equally.
Add on an ADU.
Regardless of if you call it an accessory dwelling unit, granny flat, mother-in-law unit, or something else, the ADU is increasing in popularity across the United States. This is especially true in cities like Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and San Diego. These can add to the resale value of the main house, add additional square feet to your property, and even turn you into homeowners that operate a side property. Of course, you’ll need to learn more about building codes, state law, and even acquiring a building permit at the local level.
Say that you are looking to turn an existing garage into an ADU in Los Angeles. You’d want to connect with the City of Los Angeles to learn more about state law, state standards, and local regulations within Los Angeles County. You’ll have to go beyond basic information as well. Even if you’re doing a garage conversion, you’ll want to know about all applicable rules and regulations. And of course, for those living outside of Los Angeles, the process is largely the same.
Rethink your decor.
Becoming a pool owner, increasing safety measures, and working with your local government to add an ADU are all fairly large projects. Sometimes, homeowners need smaller, more manageable tasks that don’t require much extra income. Often, you can get the most out of all the square feet in your home by simply reconsidering your interior design choices. Start with your home’s color palette. Are things fairly muted and neutral? While neutrals are always a plus when it comes time to sell, they frequently don’t do much for the current homeowners. Though a new home should be somewhat of a blank slate, your primary residence should include some of your personality.
Colorful accent walls, bold prints, and patterns for throws and blankets, and even some thoughtful artwork can all go a long way to turning you from “house-owners” into homeowners. If you’re struggling to find a way to incorporate some extra life into your home, consider bringing in local art and decor. It’s an easy way to breathe life into your surroundings and show some local pride.
Of course, a swimming pool fence, a detached ADU or granny flat, and redecorating your home aren’t the only ways to revamp your living space. However, they’re great projects for improving comfort while increasing curb appeal. As long as you’re comfortable in your surroundings, you’re doing the right thing.