8 Ways to Use Your Tax Refund on Home Improvements

If you anticipate getting even a modest tax refund from Uncle Sam this spring, there are any number of small to medium-sized home improvement projects you might consider, so that when the refund is gone, you’ll have something to show for it. Of course, if you’re one of the lucky people who is entitled to a rather large check from the government, you might get a bit more elaborate and think about a San Diego kitchen remodeling job, or even some more extensive San Diego home remodeling. For those of us who expect a smaller windfall, some of the projects below just might be the perfect way to get some real value out of this year’s tax refund.

RE-PAINTING ROOMS

There are already a number of 2018 trends taking shape for colors to be used in the various rooms throughout the household, and if you’d like to capitalize on one or more of those trends, you can re-paint rooms which are most in need of a fresh look. Since your dining room probably doesn’t get a ton of sunlight anyway, it might be worthwhile to apply a fresh coat of stone white to brighten things up.

To achieve impressive depth and instant energy in your living room, you might try an ultra violet shade. In the bathroom, sage has quickly become a primary color of choice because of its neutral appeal. And if the kitchen will be your main area of focus, marigold is one of the hottest trends for the coming year.

LIGHTING UPGRADES

LED lighting has never been more affordable, and lights are now available in both cool and warm colors, as well as a wide variety of wattages. For sure, an upgrade to LED lighting will have both aesthetic and functional value for your home.

WOOD FLOORING

This might be a relatively expensive upgrade project, but it will certainly be worth it in terms of its current appeal and in future resale value. When you do get around to selling your home, a hardwood floor will probably be valued at twice what you pay for it this year. Custom home builders in San Diego can help with this project, so you’re sure that you achieve maximum value for your investment.

INSTALL A DECK

Decks are well known for bringing in a high return on investment at home resale time. In the meantime, you and your family can enjoy the many benefits of having a virtual extra room outside, for lounging, barbecuing, entertaining, and just enjoying the great outdoors.

GARDEN/LANDSCAPING IMPROVEMENTS

San Diego home builders are discovering that many residents of the area are opting for backyards that include less grass and more decorative spaces such as stone-filled sections with more plants. Swimming pools, bocce courts, outdoor kitchens, and even outdoor turf are some other ideas that might fit your own circumstances.

ADD A KITCHEN BACKSPLASH

With a kitchen backsplash, your cleaning job will be much easier around sinks or ovens, and it’s an addition that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. You can use easy-to-install tiles that add color and beauty, but which are easily maintained in those areas that are typically susceptible to more grime.

BUILD OUT THE BASEMENT

For homeowners who have an elderly relative moving in, or possibly a child moving back home temporarily, building out the basement into a living space can be the perfect answer to a space problem. San Diego contractors and builders have already identified this as a significant trend of 2018.

ADD A MUDROOM OR ENCLOSED PATIO

With a kitchen backsplash, your cleaning job will be much easier around sinks or ovens, and it’s an addition that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. You can use easy-to-install tiles that add color and beauty, but which are easily maintained in those areas that are typically susceptible to more grime.


Making home improvements will not only give your home a needed aesthetic lift, but when it’s time to sell your home, you can gain a significant return on your investment. If you’re looking to remodel or are building your dream home in San Diego, you’ll want to have the best custom home builders in the business help to create your vision. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you take advantage of your 2018 tax return.

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