With improved curb appeal and family-friendly storage solutions, a custom garage can give your property the boost it needs to sell in a competitive market.

Although the city of Wilmington is rebuilding in the wake of Hurricane Florence, the real estate market continues to grow. In fact, the Port City has one of the liveliest housing markets in the United States, including luxury and beachside homes. As our area’s many realtors understand, with an increase in properties comes a need for greater differentiation and marketing. That’s where a garage renovation may be just what you need to give your home the edge it needs to sell. Here, a few cost-effective ways you can improve your property’s real estate value with a custom garage.

Upgrade Your Garage Doors

While landscaping and an updated color scheme can certainly add to your home’s curb appeal, the exterior renovation with the greatest pay-off is an updated garage door, per the 2019 Cost vs. Value Report. On average, replacing a two-car garage door with a four-section garage door with heavy-duty galvanized steel tracks costs $3,611. Because you’ll recoup over 97 percent of your investment upon the sale of your home, this upgrade pays for itself. A great first impression sticks with would-be homebuyers, so choose a set of garage doors with a stylish yet timeless aesthetic.

Streamline Your Garage Space with Wall Organizers

Of course, custom garages are about far more than looks -- functionality is important, too. That’s why for 85 percent of homebuyers, quality garage storage is an essential point on their checklist. Today’s would-be homeowners look for garages that provide space for their vehicles and their growing families. To free up valuable floor space and provide a clean and orderly aesthetic, opt for closed garage cabinets and slatwall. At Strickland’s Home, our designers will help ensure that storage systems of all types provide space for large bins as well as small baskets, sports equipment, and more.

Add Open Shelving to Inspire Future Homeowners

There’s nothing like walking into a visually-pleasing garage, rather than an eyesore in need of repairs. For this reason, cubbies with adjustable shelving and even a drop-off zone with hooks and a shoe bench by the door will have homebuyers asking when they can move in. Modern, built-in features ensure families they’re investing in a move-in ready space, not a fixer-upper.

Create Aesthetic Unity with Matching Organization Systems

While some homes come with mismatched features from room to room, those with a unified aesthetic feel balanced and complete. Give your garage a makeover with color-matched cabinets, hardware, crown moulding, and trim for an updated design that brings the whole room together.

Upgrade Your Garage at Strickland’s

Whether you’re looking to relocate soon or have a few years to go, a custom garage is always a great investment. At Strickland’s Home, our team will help you decide which features suit your personal inventory, needs, and budget. From custom flooring to watercraft storage, we’ll help give your garage the upgrade it deserves. To learn more about our process or to get started, give us a call or visit our showroom on 5422 Oleander Drive.

Fred Kumpel is the owner of Strickland’s Home. The company, located at 5422 Oleander Drive, has four divisions, each with its own products showroom: Strickland’s Blinds, Shades & Shutters; Strickland’s Closets & Home Organization; Strickland’s Custom Garages; and Strickland’s Draperies & Fabrics. To learn more, visit StricklandsHome.com. Fred can be reached at [email protected] or by calling 910.762.0944.