As I write this blog, in the northeast we are digging ourselves out of the latest of yet another snowstorm; this one dropped 10-12 inches in our area. This too shall pass….
Believe it or not, the Spring real estate market is just around the corner and if you are considering selling your home, and currently assessing what you might want to do to prepare it for market, please read the latest on the most cost effective improvements you may want to consider.
As part of the 2010-11 Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report, REALTORS® recently rated exterior replacement projects among the most cost-effective home improvement projects, demonstrating that curb appeal remains one of the most important aspects of a home at resale time. “This year’s Remodeling Cost vs. Value Report highlights the importance of exterior projects, which not only provide the most value, but are also among the least expensive improvements for a home,” said National Association of REALTORS® President Ron Phipps, broker-president of Phipps Realty in Warwick, R.I. “Since resale value can vary by region, it’s smart for homeowners to work with a REALTOR® through the remodeling and improvement process; they can provide insight into projects in their neighborhoods that will recoup the most when the owners are ready to sell.”
Nine of the top 10 most cost-effective projects nationally in terms of value recouped are exterior replacement projects. The steel entry door replacement remained the project that returned the most money, with an estimated 102.1% of cost recouped upon resale; it is also the only project in this year’s report that is expected to return more than the cost. The midrange garage door replacement, a new addition to the report this year, is expected to recoup 83.9% of costs. Both projects are small investments that cost little more than $1,200 each, on average. REALTORS® identified these two replacements as projects that can significantly improve a home’s curb appeal.
“Curb appeal remains king—it’s the first thing potential buyers notice when looking for a home, and it also demonstrates pride of ownership,” said Phipps. Rismedia
For more information on this Cost vs Remodel report, please click here: http://rismedia.com/2010-12-15/homeowners-recoup-more-with-exterior-replacement-projects-realtors%c2%ae-report/
Until next time, keep warm!
Linda 
