Remodeling is the buzz word right now for homeowners.  Just flip on the TV and you can watch show after show on remodeling tips.  So, what is a homeowner to do?  Does investing in remodeling really help your overall home value?

Before you take that sledge hammer to your home, consider these facts as reported by the National Association of REALTORS®:

• Consider the area of your home that you would like to remodel.  Not all areas are as valuable to the appreciation value of your home.
• Typically the areas of the home that bring the highest return are the kitchen, siding replacement, deck replacement or addition and higher end windows.
• Areas that have shown a low return for remodeling have been adding studies, converting extra bedrooms into master baths or large closets.  For one client this might be great but for the majority of buyers out there, you have just cut down on your available bedrooms.  This in the long run might hinder your resale value.
• Before deciding to remodel, it is also important to remember what colors you will use.  Don't go out on a limb and choose loud or bold colors.  Not everyone likes them.  The more neutral you go, the safer it will be for resale.
• Another important factor to consider before remodeling is what type of materials you choose.  The best rule of thumb is to choose moderately priced materials.  Choosing really low-end or extreme top of the line materials are not wise investments.
• Be very careful to use remodeling contractors that have good references and are licensed by the state of Texas.  Remember the rule of thumb, you get what you pay for.
• Unless you are highly skilled in doing carpentry work, plumbing, etc. hire a professional.  More homes are botched by well intended homeowners trying to save money but in the end, can't finish a project or have a project that really does look like poor workmanship.  In these cases, the homeowner ends up spending more money to have someone come in and repair the work.

If you have a local realtor that you work with, give them a call.  Real estate agents go into so many homes and can tell you honestly if you need to remodel or not.  Additionally, they can help guide you toward honest and trustworthy contractors.

Lake Conroe Real Estate