Top remodeling projects in Charlotte’s hottest neighborhoods
Where do people in Charlotte want to live? With such a diversity of neighborhoods each with its own distinct flavor, the answer to that question will understandably be different for everyone. However, there are some trends that are somewhat universal. Opendoor recently looked at Charlotte’s top 10 most popular ZIP codes and came up with a few common factors, such as proximity to Uptown, a location in a growing suburban area that still has a community feel, and access to amenities – both retail and recreational. Here are their Top 10 most desirable ZIP codes in the greater Charlotte area:
- 28078 – Huntersville
- 28269 – North Charlotte
- 28173 – Waxhaw
- 28277 – South Charlotte/Ballantyne
- 29707 – Fort Mill
- 28027 – Concord
- 28215 – East Charlotte
- 28205 – Plaza Midwood, Country Club Heights, Eastland, Villa Heights, NoDa
- 28214 – West Charlotte, Wildwood, Mt. Holly-Huntersville Road area
- 28110 – Monroe
We love seeing this because it reaffirms the desirability of so many of the areas in which we typically do Charlotte home remodels. In many of these areas, there are beautiful, older homes that are more affordable than new construction. Don’t be afraid of buying an older home. With a few simple updates, you can transform it into the home of your dreams. Here are the most common home remodeling projects our clients ask us to do in older homes.
Kitchen Remodel
The kitchen is a focal point in any home, and older homes in Charlotte often have outdated layouts and appliances. Modernizing the kitchen can involve opening the space to create a more open floor plan, installing energy-efficient appliances, adding modern cabinetry and countertops, and updating electrical circuits and lighting. Using durable materials such as quartz or granite countertops, tiled or solid-surface backsplashes and hardwood, luxury vinyl plank or tile for flooring can enhance both the aesthetics and the functionality of the space. Given Charlotte’s growing foodie culture, a modern, spacious kitchen can be a significant asset.
Enhancing Curb Appeal
Homes in Charlotte’s diverse neighborhoods, from historic districts like Dilworth to the tree-lined streets of Myers Park, all benefit from attractive curb appeal. Updating the exterior of an older home can include painting or replacing siding, installing a new front door and updating landscaping. Adding a porch or expanding an existing porch and including features like ceiling fans and lighting can create inviting outdoor spaces that reflect Southern hospitality.
Bathroom Renovations
Updating bathrooms in older homes can provide a significant return on investment. Older bathrooms may have outdated plumbing lines and fixtures, inadequate lighting and outdated electrical circuits, and limited storage. Modernizing these spaces with new tiles, contemporary fixtures, improved lighting, and additional storage can greatly enhance comfort and usability. Incorporating spa-like features such as a walk-in shower, soaking tub, or heated floors can add a touch of luxury.
Creating Outdoor Living Spaces
Charlotte’s pleasant climate makes outdoor living spaces highly desirable. Adding or improving a deck, patio, or screened porch can provide additional living space for entertaining and relaxing. Consider features such as outdoor kitchens, fire pits, and comfortable seating areas to maximize the use of your outdoor space. Proper lighting and landscaping can further enhance these areas, making them functional and inviting both day and night.
Open Floor Plan Conversion
Many older homes have compartmentalized layouts that can feel cramped. Converting to an open floor plan by removing non- and load-bearing walls can make the home feel larger and more inviting. This type of renovation can improve natural light flow and make the space more conducive to modern living and entertaining, which is particularly popular in Charlotte’s vibrant, social culture.
Floorovers and Attic Conversions
Homes built in the 80s or 90s may have soaring two-story spaces that are wasting valuable square footage and costing when it comes to utilities (see the next project below). By flooring over this space, we can create usable square footage for less than a typical addition, since the exterior walls, foundation, and roof are already in place. In a related vein, many older Charlotte homes have attics that can be converted into valuable living space. An attic or floorover conversion can provide additional bedrooms, a home office, a playroom, or just about anything else you can envision. Properly insulating, heating and cooling, and finishing these spaces can create a comfortable and functional area that adds significant value to the home.
Updating HVAC Systems
While we typically tackle this and the project listed below as parts of a larger remodeling project, they can add value and comfort to your home. In Charlotte, older homes often have inefficient heating and cooling systems that can be costly to operate. Upgrading to modern, energy-efficient HVAC systems can improve indoor comfort and reduce energy bills. Installing smart thermostats can provide more precise control over the home’s climate and offer additional energy savings. Given Charlotte’s hot summers, a reliable and efficient cooling system is especially important.
Flooring Upgrades
Older homes often have worn or outdated flooring that detracts from their overall appeal. Replacing old carpeting with hardwood, tile, or modern luxury vinyl flooring can instantly update the look of a home. Refinishing existing hardwood floors can also restore their original beauty. Durable and easy-to-maintain flooring options are particularly beneficial for households with children or pets.
Energy-Efficient Windows and Insulation
Charlotte’s hot summers and mild winters mean that energy efficiency is crucial. Many older homes lack proper insulation and have single-pane windows that are not energy-efficient. Replacing old windows with double- or triple-pane alternatives can significantly improve insulation, reduce noise, and lower energy bills. Adding insulation to walls, crawl spaces, and attics can further enhance energy efficiency, keeping your home comfortable year-round.
No matter which area of Charlotte you choose to call home, remodeling an older home involves a balance of preserving historical charm while incorporating modern conveniences. By focusing on essential projects like those listed above, homeowners can enhance the safety, comfort, and appeal of their homes, ensuring they enjoy the best of both worlds.
By: Gary Palmer, Licensed NC Residential General Contractor, and Licensed SC Residential Builder.
Need help determining whether a Charlotte remodeling project is right for your family? We are a full-service Design/Build Residential General Contractor. Reach out to us at https://palmercustombuilders.com/contact/ and we’ll discuss how we help you plan your dream home and avoid costly mistakes.
