First Impressions

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas and isn't too depressed about being back to the grindstone!

The January 2011 edition of REALTOR magazine has an excellent and concise article about cost to value for home remodeling and improvements. It also lists the top 5 projects that bring the greatest percentage of return... and you may be surprised! They aren't necessarily the big ticket items. All have one thing in common, though, and that is making the best first impression possible.

Project 1: Entry door replacement (including threshold, jambs, casings, lock set, etc.)= 102.1% cost recouped (but make sure it is in keeping with the style of the home!)
Project 2: Garage door replacement = 83.9% cost recouped (and you may not necessarily need them to be insulated -- sometimes simple is best depending on common usage for your area)
Project 3: Siding replacement = 80.0% cost recouped (make sure it is prepainted, cement siding, and ask contractors for price differences with different overlaps)
Project 4: Kitchen remodel = 72.8% cost recouped (but don't overimprove... consider painting your cabinets rather than buying new ones, do a laminate countertop instead of granite, etc.)
Project 5: Deck addition = 72.8% cost recouped (add a 16 by 20... an 8 by 8 is too small, and one the length of the home will never pay for itself)

Contact me if you would like a copy of the article -- it's GREAT information if you are considering selling anytime in the near future!