According to Redfin, Pittsburgh has seen a decrease in the median sale price of homes from June 2022 to April 2023. Pittsburgh homes were valued at $240k in April 2023, down 4.0% since last year. So, if you’re putting your home on the market, you might get less than anticipated.

The bright side is that there are various home improvement ideas that can transform your Pittsburgh abode into your (or a buyer’s) dream. If you want to fish the right buyers and have them pay the price of your choice, now is the time to make some valuable home improvements.

You only have to want to make the change, invest some pretty penny, and give it time. Ready to make things work? Let’s get started.

1. Repair Your Roof

Pittsburgh has a diverse climate. The winters are chilly, and the summers be surprisingly hot. It is bad news for your roof. The weather and exposure to the elements will take a toll, leaving you with a nasty roof needing repair.

Some signs of a damaged roof are:

• Missing, cracked, or curled shingles
• Moss and algae growth
• Sagging ridges
• Moisture spots on walls and ceilings

If you don’t address these issues at your earliest, you will have an even bigger problem at hand – structural damage. So, contact an experienced Pittsburgh Roofing company and have them assess your roof’s condition. They’ll tell you where to begin the repair work and how to go about it.

2. Update Your Siding

The aesthetic appeal of your home can make or break the deal. An old, rusty siding will do nothing to draw attention, whether it’s a buyer, a passerby, or a guest. You need new, updated, aesthetically pleasing, and durable siding.

Steel or vinyl siding is an excellent option for Pittsburgh homes because they are long-lasting, resistant to moisture build-up, and requires minimal maintenance.

If you want to do more, painting your siding is also a great idea. It will give your home a new look and bring out its personality. Choose 100% acrylic paint for the task. As for the color, it is entirely up to you. Usually, homeowners prefer subtle shades of grey, light blues, or browns.

3. Install New Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are crucial elements of your house. They play a pivotal role in energy efficiency and security. Older windows are prone to drafts and moisture build-up, making the indoor environment uncomfortable. Plus, they make your home accessible for intruders – not something you want to happen.

So, if you want to revamp your home’s security and energy efficiency, consider installing new windows and doors. Fiberglass or vinyl frames will work well in Pittsburgh’s climate and are relatively affordable. For doors, choose steel or fiberglass with frames made of durable materials like aluminum or PVC.

4. Add Outdoor Living Space

Outdoor living spaces have been in trend for quite some time now. They add immense value to your home and turn it into a place you and your family can enjoy for years.

You can create a living space with features like:

• Outdoor Kitchen – install a grill, pizza ovens, and storage for kitchen essentials
• A Fire Pit – add a thin layer of sand to contain the fire
• A Patio or Deck – install pavers, patio edging, and landscape fabric
• Patio Furniture – use wicker chairs, tables, umbrellas, and hammocks to complete the look

Outdoor living space can make any home more attractive and welcoming. Plus, it adds significant value to your property.

5. Boost Your Landscape Look

The landscape of your home plays a major role in setting the tone. Uneven grass beds, overgrown shrubs and trees, and sparse flowerbeds can all damper the overall look.

So, get your garden tools and start sprucing up your outdoor space. Plant some shrubs and lay a bed of fresh green grass. Or, add a water feature with colorful flowers to give it a more natural feel. Take advantage of Pittsburgh’s native trees and flowers, like the red-berried dogwood, to make your landscape come alive.

You can even install a pathway or walkway to your door. It adds depth and texture to the landscape and creates an inviting ambiance for your family and visitors.

6. Add Character to Your Bathroom

An “ideal” bathroom is both aesthetic and functional. So, why not give it an upgrade?

Look at the problem areas to know where to begin. Are there any limescale deposits? Does the shower look old-fashioned? Has the moisture caused the grout to discolor?

You can get rid of all these issues with ease. Start by cleaning and resealing the tiles and grout. Install a shower with glass enclosures for an alluring feel. And, lastly, replace the old fixtures with modern ones. Polished chrome, oil-rubbed bronze, and gold are some of the most popular options right now.

7. Make Kitchen Upgrades

Nothing brings more value to a home than an upgraded kitchen. But full-blown kitchen makeovers can be expensive. So, what do you do? You make smarter and safer choices. Make small changes like repainting the cabinets, replacing countertops, and installing new fixtures – all at an affordable price.

Also, consider adding storage solutions for better organization and accessibility of items. Open shelving near the sink or wall-mounted racks are excellent options. You can even add a kitchen island for extra workspace and storage – it’s the perfect way to entertain guests.

Work on the backsplash and overall paint if you want a more prominent change. As for the backsplash, try one made of natural stones like marble or slate. And choose an appropriate paint color to bring everything together.

Final Thoughts

These creative home improvement ideas will help you transform your house into the dream home – without breaking the bank. Give it time and patience, and you’ll be glad to see the results.

We only and highly recommend that you do thorough research before taking on any home improvement project. Doing so will help you make the right decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

If you’re hiring help, take your time to ensure they know their job. Only trust the best and most experienced contractors when it comes to your house.