Remodeling is a great way to fix, update or upgrade your home while increasing its value, but costs can add up. It’s important to prioritize the projects that will not only benefit you and your family in your daily lives but also will attract future buyers if and when the time comes to sell.

In general, it’s best to move forward with projects that are cost-effective and useful to anyone who might occupy the property down the line. Here are three projects to consider:

1. Kitchen

When deciding which remodeling project to take on, think about the areas of your home where you spend the most time. For many of us, one of these rooms is the kitchen, a room that potential buyers are certain to notice. Remodeling an entire kitchen can become an overwhelming process, but there are a few areas you can focus on to make a dramatic difference.

Cabinets take up a large portion of your kitchen and can look run down or get damaged over time. Sanding down your cabinetry, giving them a fresh coat of paint and adding new hardware will take a little extra effort, but is a cost-effective update that will be worth it in the long run. If it’s within your budget, consider replacing the cabinets completely.

If your countertops are starting to show their age, think about upgrading to a material like granite or quartz that will resist heat, scratches and stains. Stone countertops will ultimately last longer than laminate countertops, which will save you money in the long run.

2. Bathroom

The bathroom is another area that’s often crying out for a remodel, and is definitely a selling point of a home. At the very least, consider redoing the caulking and updating fixtures like cabinet hardware, faucets and showerheads. These are inexpensive upgrades that will make an immediate visual impact. Redoing or replacing the vanity to add more counter space or storage space is always a good idea as well, if your budget will allow.

3. Floors

Some form of flooring will be in every room of your home and is one of the first things a potential buyer will notice upon viewing your property. While this isn’t typically a budget project, updated flooring will certainly add value to your home. Laminate, tile or wood flooring are more convenient and easier to clean than carpet, though some people do prefer to have carpet in certain rooms, like the master bedroom. Freshening up the materials on the floor can take your home to the next level.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Underestimate the Little Touches.

There are many easy, budget-friendly steps you can take to up the appeal of your home. It’s true that a fresh coat of paint in a neutral color can make a world of difference in a room. If selling is something you’re considering down the road, other upgrades like extra storage space, central air and washer/dryer hookups are key attributes that appeal to buyers.

Upping your home’s curb appeal is a great way to make a good first impression on potential buyers. Simple touches like painting or replacing the front door can have a major impact. If your home has a walkway, consider pouring new concrete or installing new pavers. Spruce up the front porch with a fresh coat of paint or new steps if the old ones are struggling or need a facelift.

Lastly, lighting is another easy way to upgrade your home. Consider upgrading to modern, energy-efficient light fixtures throughout your home, or tackle a bigger project and install larger windows to let in more natural light.

Any project you decide to tackle in your home should be for the benefit of you and your family, but it’s a good idea to consider the return on your investment when putting any additional money into your home. If there’s any chance you might sell in the future, try to choose projects that will ultimately up the resale value of the entire home.