General Info

Will this renovation pay off? That's the question on the mind of every homeowner who's thinking about undertaking a project to bolster their home's resale value. And in today's tight housing market, the answer to that question may even determine whether the house will sell.Fortunately for homeowners, a number of remodeling projects offer the potential for a high return on investment (ROI). According to Remodeling magazine's annual cost vs. value report, some of the best renovations are those done on the exterior of the home?siding, window, and door replacements?because they immediately improve a home's curb appeal. In other words, if the paint on your front door is peeling or the sidewalk is badly cracked, you're not making a good first impression?and that can make prospective buyers question how much you've put into maintaining the home's interior. Even simple fixes, like pulling weeds and trimming unkempt shrubbery, can make a home more inviting. Beyond curb appeal, certain projects will provide higher returns than others. U.S. News asked real estate agents and home contractors for their recommendations:1. Kitchens2. Bathrooms3. Basements