Despite a very slight decrease in the resale value of most remodeling projects, new data reveals that the least expensive home improvements may also be the smartest investment.
Results from the 2009 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report show that small-scale exterior projects have been the most profitable when selling a home. In terms of costs recouped, seven out of the top ten projects were exterior renovations that cost less than $14,000. Only three interior projects – involving the highest costs – made the top-ten list.
| Average Investment | Cost Recouped | |
| New steel entry door | $1,172 | 128.9% |
| Fiber-cement siding | $13,287 | 83.9% |
| Attic bedroom | $49,346 | 83.1% |
| Wood deck | $10,634 | 80.6% |
| Vinyl siding | $10,607 | 79.9% |
| Foam-backed vinyl siding | $13,022 | 79.0% |
| Minor kitchen remodel | $21,411 | 78.3% |
| Wood windows (midrange quality) | $11,700 | 77.3% |
| Vinyl windows (midrange quality) | $10,728 | 76.6% |
| Basement remodel | $62,067 | 75.4% |
| Major Kitchen Remodel | $57,215 | 72.1% |
| Bathroom remodel | $16,142 | 71.0% |
As in previous years, the 2009 report shows regional variations in each home improvement’s return-on-investment. Before planning a remodeling project to boost your home’s value, talk with a real estate professional to pinpoint trends in your area.
I want to quote your post in my blog. Can I?
Home Depot seems quite busy. So, it looks like more homeowners are improving vs. moving up to a larger or more modern home.
Grace