When spring is in full swing, it can feel like there just isn’t enough time in the day to get everything done (even with the precious extra sunlight). The good news is, it’s a great time to make long-term home improvements that will save you plenty of time and won’t break the bank. Even better, some will increase the curb appeal and overall value of the home.

Use low maintenance materials.

When it comes to the kitchen and bathroom, functionality and aesthetics often take precedence, but how much time do you spend cleaning the grout out of old tiles? While it might seem like a big project in the beginning, replacing countertops with a material like quartz could save time and money in the long run. Not only does this material withstand stains, it’s also resistant to scratches and high heat. Similarly, high-quality laminate is easy to clean and makes a smart replacement for carpet or out of date floor tiles.

Sprinkler system for the yard

Though some people love to spend time tinkering in the yard, many of us just want to ensure the grass stays green and the plants don’t die. If hiring someone to take care of regular lawn care and landscaping is out of the budget, consider installing an in-ground sprinkler system. This saves you the hassle of standing outside for hours with a water hose and will benefit you in the long run if it means you won’t have to replace sod and bushes.

Fencing and entrances for pets

We love having furry friends, but owning a dog can sometimes create problems when there are two full-time workers. You can avoid accidents and unpleasant surprises by installing a doggy door in addition to fencing and gates. Giving curious canine friends a place to explore outside means less potential mess or destruction inside while you’re away. And, while it serves as a private playground for four-legged friends, property fencing also increases privacy and security, a draw for many homebuyers.

Open Mortgage is proud to offer many different mortgage products to assist with home renovations and upgrades. For more information, please contact a loan officer today.