The selling cost of your home means a lot. It’s not only what you can sell the house for, it also determines your home equity. To get the most value from your home, without spending a fortune, consider these 5 economic ways to increase home value.

Restore Your Windows

Old windows can drag down your home’s value. They may lack energy efficiency, and a broken appearance hurts curb appeal. The good news for homeowners is that windows can be restored for a fraction of the cost of new windows.

When a home’s windows are restored, they increase energy efficiency, which keeps the home heating and air conditioning costs down to a minimum. Some window repair means a much more marketable house that can compete with new construction.

Remodeling the Kitchen

To many buyers, the kitchen represents the center of the home. Hgtv notes that homeowners can expect to see a 60 to 120 percent return on investment from a kitchen rehab. It is also important to avoid going overboard. The kitchen needs to match the house. If you own a quaint colonial, a giant modern kitchen may seem out of place. Updated windows also help a kitchen look new and provide lots of light.

Fresh paint makes all the difference. It is important to select fresh, modern colors. Of all the remodeling options, this is one of the most inexpensive, and it always increases value.

New appliances immediately increase a property’s value in the eyes of a buyer. It also eliminates the cost and headache of replacing worn-out units. Energy efficient appliances are a huge bonus.

Sealing Leaks

Doors and windows are prone to leaks, especially if they are old. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that the average home has enough leaks to equal a 3X3 foot hole in the wall. Start by checking for warm or cold sports around the windows and doors. If the windows are old, have them updated with a window makeover that boosts energy efficiency.

Bathroom and Spare-Room Additions

Additions always add value. If your home has one bathroom or not enough bathrooms, this is particularly the case. Hgtv estimates homeowners can recoup 80 to 130 percent of what they spend on a bathroom addition. Underutilized spaces, such as closets or spaces beneath the stairs, are great options for placing new bathrooms. 1/2 baths need about 18 square feet and full baths need about 30 square feet (35 with a tub).

Additions are always a hit. Whenever you add a spare bedroom, den, or another useful area, you not only increase value, you interest many more buyers.

Homes are the biggest investment for most people. Make the most of yours by updating your appliances, repurposing unused spaces, and updating doors and windows.