Advantage Newsletter - February 2010

Smart Home Improvement Projects for Your Money

Home Improvement Before starting a home improvement project, it’s important to consider the project’s potential return when you sell your home. This will help you narrow down and prioritize your project list. Here are some home improvement projects worth the investment:

  1. Vinyl siding replacement. Homeowners who replace their vinyl siding recoup on average nearly 80 percent of the project’s cost when they sell the home. New siding considerably updates a home and improves the view of it from the street. Vinyl siding is very low maintenance and can last up to 25 years.

  2. Wood deck addition. Not only are wooden decks appealing from a design perspective, they are cost-effective, which is another reason to consider a wood deck addition for one of the upgrades to your home. Homeowners who add a wooden deck to their homes recoup on average nearly 81 percent of the project’s cost when they sell the home.

  3. Wood window replacement. Homeowners who replace their wood windows recoup on average about 77 percent of the project’s cost when they sell the home. Window replacement projects add curb appeal and boost energy efficiency in your home. Also, homeowners who make certain window replacements may be eligible for federal tax credits.

  4. Attic bedroom. The addition of this type of livable space to your home is often easier on your budget than other home improvement projects. With an attic conversion, you don’t have any foundation costs. Homeowners who turn their attic into a functional bedroom recoup on average about 83 percent of the project’s cost when they sell the home.

  5. Steel entry door replacement. Homeowners who install a steel front door recoup on average nearly 129 percent of the project’s cost when they sell the home. A steel door is a very cost-effective option and, in addition, enhances the exterior of the home.
It’s helpful to have an idea of what you will recoup on home improvement projects you are considering before getting started.