value: I want a house with equity! What's the value of this home? - 11/21/09 10:59 PM
Equity is a position directly related to perceived value in a specific time.  Those who had equity 2 or 3 years ago may now have none.  If the appraiser values it for more than the sale price then the lender will have perceived equity; as the appraisal is specifically for the lender in a specific transaction to determine the collateral value. 
The tax assessor has valued the property at $X, so they would perceive some equity for a sale of a lesser amount.  If the market were to significantly increase or decrease this position would change as well.  Equity is tied … (5 comments)

value: Kitchen & Bath Remodel - 09/19/09 09:10 AM
It's not surprising that two of the most popular rooms for home makeovers are the kitchen and bathroom. When potential homebuyers are searching for homes, they generally are more attracted to homes with updated kitchens and baths. These same rooms rank high in return on remodeling investment at resale, according to Remodeling Magazine's Cost-vs-Value 2008-09 Study.
However, both can be pricey ventures. According to the same study, the national average for minor kitchen remodel was $21,246. A sample remodel at this cost includes replacing cabinet fronts, flooring, laminate countertops and oven and cooktop; installing mid-priced sink and faucet, adding wall cover … (3 comments)