If you’re a homeowner or potential homebuyer, you may be wondering how to add value to your home. Most of us know the advice of giving your home a fresh coat of paint, repairing and maintaining large features such as HVAC systems or roofs. But what other ways can you add to a home’s resale value?
Here are a few ways to increase property value, even if you and your household plan to stay there for a while.
Many future buyers are interested in a home that is energy efficient, even outside energy-efficient appliances. Newer homes require substantially more electricity to be ported through their electrical systems because of new technologies.
And while this isn’t something you should take on yourself, unless you’re a licensed electrician, it is something you may want done.
On average, this project could run anywhere between $800 and $3,500. Before beginning this project, be sure to have your electrical system tested by a professional before taking on the endeavor.
Many larger homes are sold fairly quickly. Potential homebuyers may be searching for a home they can expand their household in. They may want to add extra room for entertaining. They may even have a household full of pets or extensive foliage. Regardless, having extra square footage is a great way to bring up your home’s value.
If you already have a home full of unused space, try relocating whatever you have in that area by repurposing the items, selling them, donating them or finding a simple off-site storage solution. Once you’ve relocated the items, determine if you’ll need a contractor to help turn the unused space into something more, like a master bedroom or media room.
For those who may not have the extra space, exploring the idea of creating an addition could open you up to more possibilities when it comes to selling your home or passing it through future generations.
Smart home technology can be embedded into typical home technologies, such as your thermostat or alarm system. While those items are fantastic starting points, this technology may be able to go even further.
Appliances such as refrigerators, ovens and dishwashers can increase your home’s sustainability. While this isn’t a true integration, many homebuyers may be more likely to put an offer on the home when they experience the sustainable efforts you’ve put into your daily appliances, especially if they come with the home.
Is your garage door well over its threshold? Do you need to upgrade your outdoor space to include a few more accessibility features? Perhaps you simply want to add a few solar panels to increase your home’s energy efficiency. Regardless, you need to keep your home’s curb appeal at the forefront of your home improvement to-do list.
For example, opt for garage doors with durability and heft with low-energy motors. If accessibility is more your speed, try adding a few more walkway lamps and a small concrete ramp to your home’s main entrance.
When placing solar panels, keep the style and load weight in mind when putting them on your roof or along the siding of your home.
No matter what project you start with, consult your real estate agent if you’re in the market to sell or interested in ways to increase the value of your home.
Hi! We are David and Evelyn - The Hickox Team!
With a shared passion for helping people find where you truly belong—whether it’s a dream home or a strategic commercial space—we’ve combined our experience, heart, and hustle to better serve you, as our client across the Chattahoochee Valley.
David brings sharp negotiation skills and market insight, and I bring creative strategy, relationship-driven service, and a love for both Residential and Commercial real estate. Together, we bring a perfect blend of strategy, service, and savvy, to elevate every step of your Real Estate journey.
We believe that real estate is not just about property—it’s about people, purpose, and possibility.
If you’re buying, selling, investing, or just want advice—we’re here for you.
-TheHickoxTeam
Every Home Begins with 'H"
Keller Williams Realty River Cities
Meet David
"When I think of dedication and drive in Real Estate, I think of David Hickox. Not only is David my professional partner, he’s also my fiancé — which means I get a front-row seat to the determination and care he puts into every property detail and client interaction."
-Evelyn Forston
I’m David Hickox—a dedicated real estate advisor serving the Chattahoochee Valley with a focus on results, relationships, and real value. My approach is grounded in strategy, honesty, and a deep respect for the goals and dreams of every client I work with.
I bring sharp market insight, strong negotiation skills, and a calm, solutions-focused mindset to every transaction. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling an investment property, or expanding your portfolio, I’m here to make the process smooth, strategic, and successful.
As co-lead of The Hickox Team with my fiancé Evelyn—an incredible Realtor and partner in every sense—we combine our strengths to deliver a real estate experience that’s both heart-led and results-driven. Together, we bring creativity, clarity, and commitment to the table every step of the way.
Outside of real estate, I enjoy staying active, watching the Braves and SEC football, working out, spending time with family and my sweet fiancé, Evelyn.
Let’s connect—I’d be honored to help you take the next step with confidence.
Call me at 912-596-4261
Meet Evelyn
Hi, I’m Evelyn Forston —a people-oriented, house-obsessed, dog-loving soul!💛🏡🐾
I'm a Realtor, Advisor and Associate Broker serving both Residential and Commercial Real Estate clients across Georgia and Alabama. I believe Real Estate is more than closings and contracts—it’s about connection, service, and walking with people through some of life’s biggest milestones.
I don't just sell properties—I shepherd people through meaningful life transitions with my professional partner, who is also my fiancé- David Hickox.
Whether I’m helping a family buy their first home, assisting an investor with a new commercial venture, or supporting someone in a major life transition, I treat every client with care, strategy, and heart. My experience spans residential and commercial sales, multi-family, single-family, and property management—which means I can offer smart advice, creative solutions, and real results.
I grew up in the Chattahoochee Valley and proudly graduated from both Brookstone School and Columbus State University. I love this community deeply and it shows in how I live and serve. I’m a 2022 East Alabama Leadership graduate, a 2025 “star” for the Alzheimer’s Association Dancing Stars of Columbus, a member of the East Alabama Board of Realtors, and I serve as the 2025 Entertainment Committee Chair for the Columbus Board of Realtors.
I live, work, and thrive in the Columbus, GA / Phenix City, AL area with my fiancé and real estate partner, David Hickox and my two pups, Cupcake and Aubs. We love helping people turn dreams into keys and investments into income.
Call me at 205-901-6756
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