With the cost of buying a new home reaching stratospheric levels, more owners are deciding to stay put and improve what they already have, for better or worse. That means 2023 might become the year of renovations & upgrades. In many ways, making a house more comfortable, safer, and fun to live in is a wise decision in any economy. But when inflation is running at all-time highs, and many are worried about job security, investing in home improvements is an idea that plenty are latching onto.
What are the top choices? Besides adding powerful security systems to deter theft and break-ins, homeowners are tackling equally imaginative projects like installing residential elevators, buying portable, above ground swimming pools for summer fun, building safe rooms, and purchasing ground-based solar arrays to save on utility bills. Here are more details about the top renovations and upgrades that are gaining traction as summertime approaches.
Sophisticated Security Systems
Security components for private residences are not new, but recent advances in the sophistication of units have attracted large groups of first-time customers. Another factor in the current popularity of the devices is lower cost. Prices of items to help you fully secure your residence like smart locks, window alarms, and motion detectors have been declining during the past few years. Now, homeowners of all income levels can afford to put in multiple security mechanisms on the inside and outside of their structures. Favorites include not just alarms of all varieties but also perimeter surveillance cameras, doorbell video recorders, motion-activated spotlights, and special garage locking devices.
Elevators
Installing an elevator in your home is a unique and effective way to ramp up the elegance, safety, and comfort factors of the space all at once. That’s because specialist home elevators offer owners the chance to create an ambiance of modernity and class in any living area. Whether your home is old or new, an elevator automatically transforms it into a special place. Older residents like the idea of not having to use stairs unless they want to, while others enjoy the potential increase in the resale price of a home that features its own elevator.
Not only are the units energy-efficient but they are designed to operate almost silently. Those who add elevators to their homes are usually surprised at the reasonable cost, fast installation time, and instant transformation of the room where the unit is placed. Once a rarity, domestic elevators are beginning to show up in old and new houses as demand increases among consumers who place a premium on safety, elegance, and efficiency.
Portable Swimming Pools
Above ground swimming pools are enjoying a wave of popularity among homeowners who don’t like the idea of leaving a pool behind when they move. Sometimes called portable pools, above ground units cost much less than traditional models, don’t take nearly as long to install, and can be placed just about anywhere. Plus, when winter comes, they can be stored away and present no danger to curious youngsters. Consumers like the convenience factor, too. Portables come in a wide variety of sizes and styles, which makes them ideal for yards and budgets of all sizes. They go particularly well alongside elevated decks, which transforms their look so much that it’s easy to mistake an above ground pool for a traditional one.
Safe Rooms
Popular for years in Europe and Asia, safe rooms are now gaining market share in the US. The concealed spaces are designed to protect residents in the event of a home invasion or natural disaster. Most are installed on ground level or second floors behind walls. Special entryways make it possible for family members to gain access, and there are usually coded electronic locks on the units, most of which include reinforced walls and soundproofing.
On-Ground Solar Arrays
Advances in solar energy panel efficiency have given birth to ground mounted units. They’re able to collect sunlight from almost any angle, don’t need special rooftop installation, and are much easier to keep clean and maintain. Older consumers like the easy installation aspect, while solar enthusiasts sometimes use them in tandem with a complete array of rooftop panels for maximum energy generation. One creative option is to place the small panels on the top of storage sheds or greenhouses for efficient use of space. Always consult a licensed solar specialist before placing panels on the ground or anywhere else.
