Whether you plan on moving in the distant (or not-so-distant) future, these upgrades could be worth making before you go. Say you're living in a starter home. You don't plan on being there forever, but you also aren't going anywhere anytime soon. You'd like to make some home improvements, but you're worried you won't get much return on your investment when you're ready to sell.

While this thinking could be accurate if you're planning to fully gut and renovate your kitchen, there are plenty of projects that will add enjoyment to your day-to-day living These five projects are inexpensive (around $5,000 or less) to implement and will provide you with enjoyment for years to come -- or at least until you hang that "for sale" sign in the front yard.

1. Swap out your kitchen countertops

But don't assume granite is always the best choice. Granite isn't as special as it once was because every kitchen has it now. If the countertops are the only upgrade you're planning, splurge on recycled glass (around $85 per square foot) for a true wow factor, or for a less expensive but equally stunning option, try quartz (around $60 to $75 per square foot). Stick with neutral colors which will appear clean and bright and won't turn off potential buyers.

2. Invest in a free-standing fireplace

Adding tons of character without breaking the bank. Free-standing units use piping to vent the smoke out of the home so it makes for an easier, more cost-effective installation.

3. Increase your living space with decking

An affordable extension of your home and a perfect place to entertain guests or relax with your family. Decking materials can be used to create patios, outdoor living rooms, and even outdoor kitchens.

4. Add low-voltage outdoor lighting

Think lights along your driveway, walkways, and patio, and uplights on trees. Once you have a lighting system in place, make sure to install timers, which can also deter burglars.

5. Give your exterior a makeover

Have your house exterior and front porch professionally power-washed, upgrade light fixtures (this can be as simple as replacing the bulbs, swap out the hardware on your front door, upgrade your mailbox, replace worn-out or broken shutters, and freshen up your landscaping.

Whether you are looking to buy or sell a home in Angel Fire or Taos, look to New Mexico Mountain Properties for all of your Real Estate needs. Our warm and inviting staff will help you get exactly what you are looking for, like our majestic mountain homes for sale in Angel Fire will give you the mountain setting you may want while our unique Taos homes for sale will let you get in touch with your creative side. Our Taos Ski Valley and Angel Fire condos for sale will put you right next to all the winter activities. If you're looking to build your own home, then our Angel Fire and Taos land for sale will give you the freedom to create your own dream home. If you are seeking to live totally off the grid, then look to our Taos Earthships for sale. Whatever you're looking for we can help you find it. Give us a call at 575-377-2626 in Angel Fire, 575-758-5852 in Taos or 575-770-3306 to speak directly to an agent. We are here to serve and welcome you to our spectacular area.

Information obtained from Trulia