Home Improvements as Smart Investments

Home Improvements as Smart Investments

A Percentage of your investment that can be gained at resale (these are figures from a national survey and may differ from area to area):

150% Remodeled Kitchen

A kitchen update can reward a seller with a sizable payback. Just remember though; splurging on fancy finishing materials or sophisticated equipment may cut into your profit. Keep it simple.

100% Revitalized Lawn and Garden

A verdant lawn and a modest but colorful flowerbed will entice potential buyers. The few hundred dollars invested may yield several thousands in profit.

100% Fireplace

Especially if it is energy efficient, such as a gas-powered model, a fireplace holds the promise of cozy family gatherings around the warmth of the hearth.

90% Second Bath

All it takes is a simple 5x9 foot extra bath to make mornings more civilized for most families. But don't count on a return on extras like a heat lamp or whirlpool tub.

80% Room Addition

For the most attractive return of your investment dollars later on, the added room should be today's popular family room or a third bedroom.

60 - 80% Remodeled Bath

A master bath is on many buyer's list, so invest here. If you own only one bath, install two sinks or a double vanity to handle the morning crowd.

70% Expanded Master Suite

To keep costs down, try to find extra space to create this wish list item by combining existing rooms and spaces. Heavy structural work entailed by adding square feet diminishes your return.

70% Deck

Outdoor living space is a desirable asset no matter where the locale. No maintenance decking material leaves lots more leisure time, too.

50% Exterior Paint

Sprucing up tired siding, trim, etc., can take years off the look of an older house.

50% Finished Attic

You can expect to recoup more of your investment if you make sure the renovation does not detract from the aesthetics of your home. It is especially attractive as an extra bedroom in a small house.

40% Finished Basement

This is a great way to gain added living space without building a costly addition. If the basement has an access door to the outdoors, the project becomes more valuable.

40% Heating Systems

Replace it only if your old system is dysfunctional. Depending upon a buyer's priorities, a new energy efficient furnace may or may not be a selling advantage.

35% New Windows and Doors

Buyers appreciate changes that improve the look of a house, so attractive new French doors, for example, may be a plus. Energy efficient units are an ecological boom, but may be a resale bust.

30% Garage

Don't go overboard to blend it into your home's architectural style. Its desirability increases if you live in a part of the country with a harsh climate.

0% Swimming Pool

Unless you live where the sun always shines, such as Southern California, this luxury item can detract from your resale profit.

We appreciate that you have taken the time and interest in our Home & Loan Finder Hotline Service and we hope the information we have provided has been useful to you. At any time you feel you need more information and/or would like to contact us- please do so by what ever method is most comfortable to you- email us at tcrealty@cdsnet.net or leave us a message and choose your personal return call time between 11 am and Noon or 5 pm to 7 pm and the number we can contact you at those times.

Sincerely,

Teresa N. Snyder

By Referral Only® Real Estate & Mortgage Consultant, GRI, ABR

Town & Country Realty

consultant@homeandloanfinder.com