Homeowners are always looking to increase the value of their homes, especially if it costs less to make the improvements than the person will likely get back years from now selling the same home or property. The same goes in Michigan, as people look to get the "upper hand" on their investment in their homes and rely on the rest of us to tell them what to invest their money in if they want the most return for their buck.

The following are some of the best investments you can make in your home before putting it on the market.

Update Kitchens/Baths

Updating your kitchen and/or bathrooms can help increase the value of your home exponentially. Top-of-the-line kitchen and bathroom finishes are all the rage in Michigan these days (as well as in other states) and the return can be much bigger than the initial investment that you made into the updates in the first place. 

Keep Your Lighting Updated

Updating the lighting throughout your home to keep it bright and wow-worthy ensures everything  you are wanting to emphasize shows up clearly and completely. Nothing will dull your homes like old lights and dull colors, however, upgrading your light can bring your entire room to life and ensure a great presentation during open houses, or for photographs. Opt for track lights or chandeliers to give your home a luxury, up-to-date feel.

Upgraded Windows

It's no secret that the builder-grade windows are the best around. Homeowners who update their windows to withstand more adverse weather in tornado or hurricane zones ensure that they are both protecting their property by preparing for future emergencies. New windows will provide better insulation for your home, which will in turn save you save money on heating and air conditioning expenses.

Update Kitchens/Bathrooms and Master Bedroom

Updating your kitchen and bathrooms regularly helps ensure that your home is worth top value. First focus on updating the master bathroom and kitchen, as most potential buyers feel these are the most important areas of the home. Homes with updated kitchens and bathrooms go through an upgrade-phase that increases the value of the home more than 15% over those who don't have those upgrades done to their home. That's a $15,000 markup on every $100,000 your home is worth, which can easily be more than you put into the renovation, especially if you do the work yourself. Making small improvements periodically will keep your home looking new. When the day to sell your home comes you'll be thankful for the upkeep you did to the home throughout the years.

Install a Doorbell Camera

Doorbell cameras are an affordable high-tech upgrade to a traditional doorbell that is sure to impress potential buyers. A doorbell camera enables you to see who is at your door from your mobile device. No matter how safe your neighborhood may be, this device can help you keep and eye on and secure your home.

Upgrade Your Curb Appeal

Many homes need to upgrade their curb appeal. Whether you decide to install a waterfall, plant fresh flowers every few months, or simply keep your yard weed-free and mowed, being sure to maintain your landscaping can help ensure that your home looks as fresh as possible.

Each homeowner will sell their home based on what they feel is right to upgrade and to improve. However, these are some general guidelines as for what prospective homeowners are looking for and what they expect to see when they walk into their future home.

Keep Your Lighting Updated

Updating the lighting throughout your home to keep it bright and wow-worthy ensures everything  you are wanting to emphasize shows up clearly and completely. Nothing will dull your homes like old lights and dull colors, however, upgrading your light can bring your entire room to life and ensure a great presentation during open houses, or for photographs. Opt for track lights or chandeliers to give your home a luxury, up-to-date feel.

Upgraded Windows

It's no secret that the builder-grade windows are the best around. Homeowners who update their windows to withstand more adverse weather in tornado or hurricane zones ensure that they are both protecting their property by preparing for future emergencies. New windows will provide better insulation for your home, which will in turn save you save money on heating and air conditioning expenses.

Update Kitchens/Bathrooms and Master Bedroom

Updating your kitchen and bathrooms regularly helps ensure that your home is worth top value. First focus on updating the master bathroom and kitchen, as most potential buyers feel these are the most important areas of the home. Homes with updated kitchens and bathrooms go through an upgrade-phase that increases the value of the home more than 15% over those who don't have those upgrades done to their home. That's a $15,000 markup on every $100,000 your home is worth, which can easily be more than you put into the renovation, especially if you do the work yourself. Making small improvements periodically will keep your home looking new. When the day to sell your home comes you'll be thankful for the upkeep you did to the home throughout the years.