Comments on: What Is The Most Valuable Home Improvement One Can Make?

By: William K

William K — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 12:25:45 +0000

Great question,
Without actually seeing your home I would offer the following for review: When someone buys a house they expect that the windows and roof are in serviceable condition. If your current windows are ok and you elect to replace them you should not expect to get a return on that investment other than possibly saving on your heating & cooling expenses. With regard to finishing off you basement, this is an area where you could have potentially a greater return if it increases the sqft and living space in your home. The additional space is welcomed by many as playrooms or family rooms especially if you can walk out of the basement to the back yard comfortably. It could also bump your house up to another category of larger homes. As far as the Kitchen remodel is concerned, without question this area historically provides a better return on your investment as most of us spend allot of time there. If you are doing it for resale I would be careful with your design selections. (Quality cabinetry with a good layout and functionality) as well as (neutral colors) will appeal to the largest market. If your current kitchen is in good serviceable condition I would probably opt for finishing the basement thereby adding more livable space to the home.
You can go online and post your project for free with a few different services. Service Magic is one and BidClerk is another.
Best of luck with your decisions.

By: emgeeale

emgeeale — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 07:07:09 +0000

Kitchen will add the most value. Replacing windows is considered maintenance and a finished basement adds no value.
Bathrooms are the next improvement that adds the most value after kitchens. Fireplaces are next.
New roof, like new windows and siding will help sell a house faster.

By: SueyN

SueyN — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 00:54:45 +0000

Without a doubt I’d do the kitchen over. Kitchens sell. You can always paint your cabinets or NU Face them. If your appliance are dated I go for stainless steel or black appliances if stainless is too high a price for you . You also have to consider if your floor is dated too and your light fixtures. It really depends on how much you are willing to spend.