4 Cost-Effective Ways to Raise Your Home's Value

Editor's Note: This was originally published on RISMedia's blog, Housecall. See what else is cookin' now at blog.rismedia.com:

If you're looking to raise the value of your home, especially for resale purposes, you've undoubtedly heard all sorts of ideas that will get the job done, many of which may be too expensive or too difficult for you to handle at the moment. Many require a large chunk of change, and while they may very well give you a return on your investment, you may not have this kind of money lying around.

Here are four budget-friendly ways to raise your home's value and increase its future resale value at the same time:

Change Out Doors and Windows
Not only can your doors and windows be easily seen from the outside of your home, thus impacting curb appeal, but they also significantly impact your home's interior. Consider energy-efficient windows that keep heating and cooling costs down and also fit the design of your home. For outside doors, try steel or fiberglass doors that keep energy costs low and improve home security.

Add Space
If possible, find a way to increase space in your home. This could be as easy as adding a patio or deck for outdoor entertaining or finishing off a basement. If you have the space and the funds, consider adding an additional room, which can be a huge boon for homebuyers who need an extra bedroom or bonus room.

Modernize Plumbing
Little leaks and plumbing issues can cost you a great deal on your home value, especially if you're actively trying to sell your home. Hire a professional plumber to address your pipes and drains and to change out plumbing fixtures for a modernized appearance. If your water heater is getting old, consider purchasing a new one at the same time.

Use Paint Wisely
Paint can do a great deal to modernize a home and improve its value for a very low initial cost. Paint walls a neutral color and spiff up kitchen and bathroom cabinets with a new color. Many older cabinets can be salvaged with a quick sanding, a coat of primer and a new color.

Not every renovation or remodel has to cost a great deal of money to be a wise investment. Instead, as you can see above, there are many small, easy changes that will still yield great results. If you truly want to raise your home's value, consider changing part of the aesthetic of your home or modernizing your windows, doors or plumbing.

Dixie Somers is a freelance writer from Arizona covering Jim Dhamer for the home improvement industry. She is a regular contributor to RISMedia's Housecall blog.