Improve or not to improve....is this a question you are asking yourself?

Improve or not to improve....is this a question you are asking yourself?

You might have been thinking about selling your home or making improvements to enjoy them while you are still there. Which ones do you need to do and how much return will you get on the investment for doing them?

According to Realtor Magazine, 2007 brought the biggest return for exterior and replacement projects. Nationally, of the projects that saw a national recovery rate of more than 80% in 2007, only one of interior project, a minor kitchen remodel saw an 83% of cost recovered. The overall trend was down from 2006 with no project exceeding an 88% return.

Exterior upgrades that were more than 80% included:

• Upscale siding replacement using fiber cement materials (88.1%)
• Wood deck addition (85.4%)
• Midrange vinyl siding replacement (83.2%)
• Upscale vinyl (81%) and midrange wood window replacements (81.2%)

In New England here are some remodeling projects and the costs recouped - mid range:

• Basement (65.7%)
• Bathroom (74.8%)
• Home office (55.7%)
• Major kitchen (77.7%)
• Minor kitchen (86.0%)

In New England here are some remodeling projects and the costs recouped - upscale:

• Bathroom (64.3%)
• Major kitchen (76.7%)

Since resale value is a major factor in a home owner's decision to remodel, it is always best to consult with a local remodeler about construction cost and look closely at the comps and market conditions.

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