The Remodel You’ve Been Dreaming About in Sarasota & Lakewood Ranch
Darren Dowling
Darren Dowling
That kitchen you’ve been imagining…
The bathroom that desperately needs a refresh…
Or the outdoor space you’ve always promised yourself…
What if the resources to make it happen are already in your home? More Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch homeowners are realizing this every day.
By 2026, U.S. homeowners are projected to spend over $522 billion on home improvements. And many aren’t dipping into their savings they’re tapping into home equity.
If you’ve owned your home in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, or surrounding areas in Manatee and Charlotte County for 10+ years, your equity could help fund your next home upgrade. Here’s what you need to know.
Home equity is the difference between your home’s current market value and what you still owe on your mortgage.
According to Cotality, the average homeowner today has about $313,000 in equity plenty to fund meaningful renovations. More homeowners are using this equity to upgrade their spaces and increase their home’s value.
Research from Meridian Link highlights the top uses for equity today:
If you’re considering a remodel in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Manatee, or Charlotte County, it may make sense to explore equity-based funding. But remember: not every project deserves your equity.
If you tap into your equity, focus on upgrades that enhance your home’s value. Even if you’re not selling soon, you want projects that deliver long-term benefit.
A local real estate agent is a key partner they understand what buyers in Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, and the surrounding counties prefer. As the National Association of Realtors (NAR) explains:
“Being able to help sellers prioritize home improvements and maximize their net on the sale is a key value real estate agents offer.”
Here’s a quick snapshot of the projects with the strongest return on investment (ROI) according to NAR:
From kitchens and bathrooms to smart upgrades, the potential ROI varies. While smaller projects can deliver surprising returns, bigger renovations like kitchens are ideal for equity-based funding.
Before you hire a contractor, talk to a real estate agent to confirm your project makes sense for your home’s value. Your goal isn’t to do it all it’s to invest wisely.
If your project requires significant equity use, consulting a financial advisor ensures you maintain a healthy loan-to-value (LTV) ratio while maximizing your home improvements.
Whether you’re selling in the next year or just enhancing your Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch, Manatee, or Charlotte County home, smart renovations can set you up for long-term success. And your home equity may be the key to bringing your dream remodel to life.
What’s the upgrade you’ve been thinking about? Let’s chat about whether it’s the right move for your home.
Contact Darren Dowling today to explore your options!
Beyond Realty
2170 Main Street, Suite 103
Sarasota, FL 34237
941-204-0493
Darren Dowling is a Sarasota-based real estate broker-owner specializing in Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch residential real estate, new construction, and relocation.
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