The 5 Best Ways to Invest in Your Own Home

When considering all of the various investment options available, most people don't think of the home they already live in as an option. However, there are several things you can do to your own home that can not only increase its value, but make it more appealing and easier to sell, should you decide to.

Here are some of the best ways to add value to your home that will give you the best bang for your buck in property value (as well as a nicer house to live in).

Source: Grey World

Windows and doorsA general rule is you will get more added value for your money with replacement projects as opposed to remodeling. So, things like new windows (especially the energy-efficient type), a shiny new front door, or replacing that tired siding should be pretty high on your priority list, if they haven't been done in a while.

According to RealEstate.com, you can expect a 72% return on investment for these types of replacement projects, and more if the existing windows or doors are in bad shape.

Finish that attic! (Or basement)According to Remodeling magazine, the number one project you can do is to finish an unfinished attic or basement. Converting an attic into a bedroom will cost you around $50,000 and about 72.5% should be recouped when selling the home. A basement can be converted into a sports den (aka a "man cave"), a game room, play room, or extra bedrooms. An in-law apartment is one of the more popular conversions for an unfinished basement. In the meantime, you will have extra useable space to enjoy!

Source: Posh Living, LLC

A bathroom can pay for itself and moreNow, if you decide to build an over-the-top bathroom suite, remember one thing: while it will certainly be appealing to prospective buyers, it will not raise your home's value by anywhere near the amount it cost to put in.

On the other hand, a modest bathroom can be a good idea. According to the National Association of Home Builders, adding a half bathroom could raise a home's value by 10.5% and a full bathroom by 20%.

The price of adding a new bathroom can be very high or very low, depending on where you live and how difficult it is to put in the necessary plumbing. For instance, if there is easy access to sewage lines right under where you want your new bathroom, it can make the job cost thousands less than it otherwise would.

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The 5 Best Ways to Invest in Your Own Home