If you’re thinking about joining in on the hot seller’s market, consider doing a little bit of remodeling first. Home renovations can be the difference between “for sale” and “sold.” Renovations are an investment into your home that will help you turn over a greater profit when you decide to sell. Don’t let the idea of the low inventory in the housing market sway you towards not renovating – buyers still know what they are looking for, and by giving them just that, you can skyrocket the value of your home and get even more than what you asked for. In this Resell Remodeling story, we spoke to local professionals about the renovation projects you should focus on to boost the value of your home.

Full Range of Services

Tony Reynolds
TSR Construction

Building on a tradition of excellence in house remodeling, TSR Construction (www.tsrconstructs.com) provides clients with a full range of construction services including roofing, carpentry, electrical, painting, concrete, and flooring. They are a Class A contractor licensed, bonded, and fully insured. We spoke to Owner Tony Reynolds about some of the trends that he has noticed in the housing market, and what homebuyers are looking for.

“We are seeing the trend of having more open spaces like the kitchen that opens to the den and possibly dining areas,” said Tony. “Efficiency is key. Those who are looking to buy a home are better understanding that 100% of the space should be completely usable. What sets us apart is affordable pricing, the quality of our work, and our commitment to our customers.”

TSR Construction also offers handyman services, including fixture installation, dry wall repair, toilet and faucet repair and installation, assembly, maintenance, electrical, and more. They can help you with a wide range of your remodeling needs, so contact them today to upgrade your home!

Top Notch Communication

Gitt Construction (gittdbr.com) is unique in the industry because they assign a design and project manager to every client they bring in, and they stay actively engaged with the project from start to finish. This allows the client to feel confident that they will end up with what they are envisioning.

Tim Silknitter
Gitt Construction

“We have in-house and independent interior designers for all remodel projects we do,” said Tim Silknitter, owner. “We do whole home remodels and additions, kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and decks. No two projects look the same as they are all customized, creating even more value. Our designers specialize in timeless designs that will make your money back at the end of the remodeling process, when it is time to list your home.”

If you are still living in your home when it is being remodeled, the construction can cause quite a disturbance and cause you and your family to make some adjustments in your day to day routine. Gitt Construction makes “livable remodeling” a priority when performing any renovations to one’s home, and they are cautious about things like cleanliness and accessibility so that disruptions to your daily lifestyle are kept to a minimum. Tim recommends being prepared to make adjustments when remodelers take over your house, but that the crew at Gitt Construction strives to keep your home as clean and as nuisance-free as possible when conducting renovations.

“Be aware of time frame and restrictions of space,” Tim said. “You should also be prepared to be a little flexible and, maybe most importantly, choose a remodeler who protects your home from dust, damage, and debris. We call this protecting the construction work and path zone. The last thing you want is the project to get done and you’re left with a big mess or even small damages to other parts of your home. At Gitt, we understand that remodeling is a messy and disruptive experience by its very nature. That is why we do everything we can to make your time during construction as easy to live through as possible. Majority of our customers live in their homes while the remodeling work is being completed, and while most people are somewhat prepared for the dust, noise, and disruption of the renovation, it can still be something that requires some adjusting. Gitt Construction’s commitment to livable remodeling helps to make some of the daily challenges of living in a construction site, a bit easier for you and your family.“

One of the great features you will experience when working with Gitt Construction is constant, consistent communication. They can complete every step of the remodeling process and will keep you updated along the way. All of their remodeling projects are assigned to Builder Trend software, their dedicated project management tool, and a project superintendent will be assigned to manage your home’s remodel. The superintendent plays a huge role in the process by keeping you updated, keeping the project flowing smoothly, and answering the inevitable questions that arise during construction. Gitt construction can self-perform, which allows them to control the project completion date.

“We do the framing, carpentry, tile, you name it,” said Tim. “We’re involved every step of the way, from the design, construction, to completion. We know that you are anxious to make it through construction and get your home on the market, so we do everything we can to help you get there as efficiently and quickly as possible.”
Gitt Construction will soon be moving their headquarters to Cabinet Design Studio. The studio will provide a one-stop shopping experience for everyone, from the do-it-yourself person to builders and remodel experts. They are a great option if you are tackling a remodeling project on your own due to their large selection of cabinets, countertops, hardware, floors, walls, fixtures, and more, as well as their experts that are available to answer any questions you may have.

A Lifelong Relationship

When it comes to hiring a contractor to complete work in your home, there are just too many that are looking to just get the job done and move onto the next one. At Langer Electric, they pride themselves on the relationship that they build with each of their customers. Chances are, you will have more than one electrical need in your lifetime – and they want to earn your business for life. They believe they can do just that by providing quality work, competitive pricing, and convenient servicing, all while being quick and efficient. Licensed, bonded, and insured, you can trust that the experts at Langer Electric (facebook.com/LangerElectricCo) will complete your electrical remodel projects efficiently, helping you improve the value of your home.

Chris Langer
Langer Electric

Owner Chris Langer has many years of experience, and it’s important to him to keep his services affordable. Aside from overseeing the wiring and panel work during a project, Langer Electric also installs light fixtures. Specifically, he said, LED lights are great attractions for potential buyers.

“The hottest trend is upgrading everything to LED,” Chris said. “It seems like they keep coming out with easier products to install. It’s not such a big, bulky product anymore. Plus, LED’s use 90% less electricity than the standard incandescent bulb, so you’re getting more light for less power. Also, Wi-Fi switches are continually improving. People can install and control everything throughout their house, including security cameras. It’s like a one-stop shop that can all be controlled through an app on an iPad or phone. It’s becoming almost standard these days to have 24/7 surveillance of your home sent right to your phone.”

In addition to LED products, it’s becoming standard to have USB access throughout your home. Most of us have smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, or more that require a USB to charge, so upgrade to USB outlets. Even if you aren’t interested in upgrading, it’s a good idea to at least make sure the outlets are updated. If your plug isn’t snug and secure when you put it in an outlet, you will definitely want to replace it; this can cause electrical arcing, or an electrical breakdown of gas that produces a prolonged electrical charge. This puts your home in serious danger of catching on fire. Other signs that your outlets need updated include: sparks, smoke, or a burning smell appearing when you plug something in; an outlet that feels hot when you touch it; the outlet cover is cracked; or if the outlet is ungrounded, meaning they only have two holes instead of three (this is more common in older homes). They may be a smaller part of your home, but buyers are becoming more technically savvy and will notice safe, updated outlets. Make sure that your house is secure by contacting Langer Electric to upgrade your outlets now!

HVAC System

Corwin Keller
Ideal Heating and Air Conditioning

When thinking of ways you can upgrade your home to boost its resale value, often times the first things that come to mind involve visible remodels. Don’t leave out the HVAC system from your decision to upgrade! According to an appraisal estimate in Money magazine, installing a new central air-conditioning system can increase your property value by 10%. The National Association of Realtors found that HVAC remodels have a higher average return on investment than most other types of remodeling projects, with a return of up to 71%. It may not have the aesthetically pleasing look of brand new countertops and cabinets, but a smooth-working HVAC system is critical to have to ensure the sale of your home. If you are needing repairs done or a total replacement of your HVAC system, we recommend Ideal Heating & Air Conditioning (heatingairomaha.com).

At Ideal, their goal is simply to be the best, most trusted home service professionals available in the region. Their foundation consists of efficient, reliable, and cost-effective heating, air conditioning, and quality interior air products. They provide: unmatched service guarantee; nationally-distributed, reliable products; NATE trained, professional technicians; prompt, friendly service; and a large service area in the Omaha Metro and surrounding areas.

“We offer Rheem products, the largest manufacturer of water heating products in North America,” said Owner and Operator Corwin Keller. “Rheem was born in 1925 and their products have been produced for nearly 100 years and are constantly developing. Some of their products that we provide include air conditioners, air handlers, gas furnaces, heat pumps, package units, and thermostats. If any of these products in your home need repairs or are outdated, we can lend you a hand with our experienced and efficient crew!”

Curb Appeal

Curb appeal is an important factor to take into consideration when conducting a resell remodel of your home. Poor curb appeal won’t catch nearly as much attention as a home that attracts the eye, and it can also drive down the perceived value of your home. When the curb appeal of your home is strong, it reflects good maintenance of the interior of the home, helps you stand out from competition, and makes the home appear more valuable.

Meza Gardens and Design (mezagardensanddesign.com) is a full-service, professional landscape design, build, and maintenance company. It is a female- and minority-owned company that can bring your outdoor area to life. They can design and install landscapes and hardscapes, including retaining walls, patios, water features, and fire pits.

Chris Meza
Meza Gardens and Design

“We’re small enough to give our customers the attention they deserve and large enough to handle complex projects,” said Co-Owner Chris Meza. “We consider what you want and your budget, then come up with a plan to make it happen.”

When renovating your landscape, you want to match it to your home’s architectural style. Chris can help you create a design that is meant for your home and will draw buyers in. Patios are also something that buyers are interested in these days, and more and more people are looking for a home that has an outdoor space they can utilize. According to the National Association of Realtors, 48% of real estate professionals surveyed said that the porch-patio combo was the most popular outdoor space in single-family homes in 2021, beating it’s contenders by a longshot. Let Meza Gardens and Design install a patio in your backyard to attract more buyers who are looking for this outdoor entertainment space. In addition to this finding, the survey also discovered that 59% reported fire pits as the most popular outdoor living addition – another feature that the Meza crew can put into your landscape!

Potential buyers are attracted to homes with green grass, fresh mulch, tidy yards – things that make them feel invited and welcomed into what could possibly be their new home. A rejuvenated landscape is the first thing that buyers will see when they approach your property, so let Meza Gardens and Design help you make a good first impression!

In addition to landscaping, take note of how the exterior of your home looks to buyers. Stonebrook Exterior (stonebrookexterior.com) offers services to repair or replace your roofing, siding, windows, gutters, and more.

Their diverse range of offerings allow them to customize their delivery to individually match the unique needs of their residential clients.

TwiLea Fletcher
Stonebrook Exterior

According to Zillow, a new roof can increase your chances of receiving the full asking price, spending less time on the market, and experiencing a smoother negotiation. A roof that is in poor condition can make the selling process incredibly difficult – and because it is part of the curb appeal, it could even scare off potential buyers. Roofing is a service that Stonebrook Exterior takes great pride in; Business Development Manager TwiLea Fletcher explained the steps the Stonebrook team takes in order to accurately assess your roof.

“Our team goes through an intensive training course and comprehensive testing in order to become Haag Certified Roofing Inspectors,” said TwiLea. “As Haag Certified Inspectors, they have the necessary skills and knowledge to accurately inspect your roof for damage and correctly evaluate that damage.”

Damaged or worn siding is an eyesore that can ward off potential buyers. In a report by Remodeling Magazine, replacing the siding is projected to have a 95% return on investment. New siding can get you nearly all of your money back, plus it’s sure to attract more buyers and not scare any off. Vinyl, a type of siding that Stonebook offers, is a popular option among homeowners for its low maintenance, durability, low cost, and ability to save money on heating and cooling.

Gutters are also an important exterior feature to make an investment on. Gutters that are in bad shape, are, similar to siding, an eye sore, but they will also present to potential buyers the possible issues that they could be facing in the future. Upgraded gutters will prevent the dreaded problem of a flooded basement, help maintain your landscape by controlling runoff, minimize breeding grounds for pests, protect the fascia of your home from rotting, and stop bowing and cracking in concrete sidewalks and driveways. Stonebrook’s talented crew can repair or replace your gutters and have your home looking fabulous, just in time for resale!

Manage the Mess

When doing resell remodeling, not only does it create a bit of mess, but you are also likely cleaning out your belongings and deciding what to keep, donate, and toss. Contact redbox+ of Omaha (redboxplus.com/omaha) to help you make this process easier!

Mark Fredrickson
redbox+

“With just one call, we will deliver our one-of-a-kind exclusively patented combination roll-off dumpster to your home,” said Owner Mark Fredrickson. “All you have to do is specify which size of dumpster you desire, and when and where you’d like it dropped off – we will do the rest!”

Roofing projects or garage cleanouts are ideal times to have a dumpster nearby, and even if you decide to call at the last minute, Mark and his team will drop off a dumpster in your driveway as soon as possible; most of their deliveries happen within the first 24 hours of your call!

If your dumpster fills up, simply let them know and they will be there to pick up the container and dispose of the materials. The best part – they can return the fully serviced dumpster within the same day. Doing a bathroom remodel on your house or some major plumbing work? No problem! redbox+ also offers dumpsters that come with a connected portable toilet.

“We provide our Standard and Elite (with two porta potties) containers for residential and commercial clean up and remodeling,” said Mark. “Our Elite containers are patent and redbox+ is the only place you will be able to find this unique solution to both of your job site needs.”

redbox+ offers two different sizes of containers (20-yard and 30-yard), and each size can come with or without a portable toilet. Their Customer Care Standard means that you won’t have to worry about on-time delivery, on-time pick up, or cleaning up on their way out. This is a great option to look into before you begin any major remodeling projects, as it will save you time and hassle on cleanup, letting you quickly move onto your next big idea.

The market is still in favor of sellers right now, so if you have been thinking about getting a new place, now is the time to remodel your home and list it to get the most bang for your buck. We recommend these local businesses for all of your resell remodeling needs!