What Improvements to Your Home Matter Most?

Exterior Improvements Add Most to Home’s ValueFor the second consecutive year, appraisers and REALTORS® report that exterior home remodeling projects bring the highest return on investment for homeowners, according to the 2008 -09 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report.

Exterior improvements, including wood deck additions and all types of siding replacement, return more than 80 percent of project costs upon resale. Window replacements and kitchen remodels also fare well. All types of window replacements – upscale and midscale wood and vinyl – return more than 76 percent of cost, while a major-midrange kitchen remodel returns 76 percent and a minor midrange kitchen remodel returns 79.5 percent.

Bathroom remodels also continue to be a good investment, although they do not return as high a percentage as in previous years. A midrange bathroom remodel recoups an estimated 74.4 percent at resale. The least profitable remodeling projects are home offices, sunroom additions and back-up power generators.

Would you like more information? Contact bill.swanson@cbshome.com.