MAXIMIZE VALUE STORAGE PROJECTS
There is nothing that compares to an over sized garage, some attic space, and plenty of closet space when it comes to extra storage. A nice plus is a master suite with ‘his and hers walk-in closets. If you do not have extra space to turn into a fabulous storage area, then make use of what you have by learning how to maximize your space with storage and organization projects that can definitely increase your home’s value. Clutter makes a home look smaller and less valuable.
CLOSETS
When you open your closet doors and everything falls out or if you can’t find things because of overstuffed and disorganized closets, it’s time for you to think about an upgrade. Cluttered closets are a turn-off to most home buyers sending an immediate message that you don’t have enough space. Adequate storage space and well-organized closets are not only essential but extremely valuable.
As a Realtor® I know the two most important parts of a home is the master suite and kitchen so it isn’t over rated when I say, invest in nice closets and storage in these two areas. By putting in a couple of custom shelves where space is wasted, or drawer organizers and shoe racks, or baskets, these are just a few ways to control clutter to increase the value of your home.
CURRENT TRENDS
Organize with purpose. Older hones contain closets that consists of a single rod, so definitely give it a makeover. Today’s new homes are built with larger, deeper and taller closet areas, and walk-in closets are a must for a master bedroom. Usually they include much more elaborate and divers areas with built-in shelves, shoe racks, organizational bins and even roll-out drawers.
Dresser in the closet. One of the new trends is some homeowners are actually building cabinets in their closets and centerpiece storage – almost like an island for shoes and underwear. You could even put rollers on this to move out or around to have access to other areas.
His-and-her closets. Just like you find double sinks in bathrooms, or like dual vanities, personalized space, privacy and designated areas are very popular and in demand by today’s homeowners.
BIGGEST MISTAKE
Make sure that you keep the updating of your closet proportional to match with the rest of the house. Don’t go overboard. Make it functional.
EXPERT TIPS
On a budget: Remember you don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars in giving your new closet a make-over in building custom shelves. Wooden or wired baskets are great to help you stay organized and very trendy in today’s homes. There are a number of various hanging systems you can install yourself that expand the usable area of the closet.
Mid-Range: Whether you are a do-it-yourself type of homeowner or hire a professional, there are many organizational systems that will fit any budget. Another trick of modernizing an outdated closet is by changing the door to give it a new look and increase access. A great example of this would be if you have a single door, replace it with double doors.
High-End: You can customize your closets with drawers and shelving to match your individual style, taste and needs. Customize your built-in features with a floor to ceiling shoe wall or a handy tie caddy or hat rack, which will add convenience and luxury.
GARAGE
This is one area where there are many do-it-yourself shelving and storage options to keep your garage organized.
It is sometimes easier to use your garage as a catch-it-all by dumping everything that wont’ fit into your home into the garage. After awhile, you are stumbling over boxes of old tax records, photo albums, and everything else to get to your bicycles, or golf clubs. If your garage is so cluttered that you can’t even fit your car in it, the it is time to reclaim this valuable storage place.
CURRENT TRENDS
Keeping behind closed doors. The traditional metal shelves are common in many garages but more homeowners are keeping items like tools and toys hidden behind doors, installing cabinets with such storage options as shelves, drawers with organizers and hooks for hanging items.
Specialty Storage: Your garage is a perfect place for items that are used often but wouldn’t necessarily store in your main home, including tools, recreational equipment and bicycles. There are many systems available to organize these items, such as hanging racks or wall mounts for your bicycles, to mention a few.
Storage room attached: Back in the 1970s, homeowners stored miscellaneous items in inexpensive and simple tin metal storage sheds in the backyard. Today, homeowners are attaching prefabricated and elaborate internal storage rooms onto the garage with outside access via a separate door entrance.
More than just cars: The coveted three-or four-car garages are very popular today for housing not only cars but use for storing recreational vehicles like motorcycles, boat, 4-wheeler, or golf cart. Sometimes a large garage can also be converted into a separate guest apartment or workout area or game room.
BIGGEST MISTAKE
Do not store hazardous materials like old paint and gasoline in the garage, which puts your home and family’s safety at risk. If you have old paint sitting around for years, is it worth the safety loss for storing paint? The fire hazard caused by its fumes can create a combustible situation. It’s not worth the risk to your family’s safety.
EXPERT TIPS
On a budget: Start by giving your garage a cleaning out project. Hold garage sales and get rid of white elephants and items that you no longer use or need. You can purchase very inexpensive plastic bins to store items or a do-it-yourself shelving kits to get organized.
Mid-Range:
High-End: If you have a large three to four car garage, you then have the room to build custom storage systems with high-end features, all based on your needs and style. Again, you can convert the garage into a game room or separate guest apartment.
ShirLee McGarry® with Principal Realty Group is a freelance writer in Utah
Photos from Fotosearch stock photography
Photos from Fotosearch stock photography
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