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Top 7 Home Improvement Projects for Return on Investment

By
Real Estate Broker/Owner with Keller Williams Realty STL

The 2013 Cost vs Value report proffered by Remodeling Magazine compares the average cost for 35 popular remodeling projects with the value of those projects for resale.  St Louis home improvement projects are itemized in their report and here are the top 7 cost vs value projects for STL home improvements for 2013:

1.  Steel entry door replacement - 88.2%



2.  Vinyl window replacement - 72.3%
3.  Minor kitchen remodel - 71.3%
4.  Wood deck addition - 70.5%
5.  Vinyl siding replacement - 69.6%
6.  Garage door replacement - 69.2%
7.  Attic bedroom remodel - 66.8% 

According to Remodeling Magazine, trends indicate that replacement projects are more popular than remodeling projects.  Their comparison also showed that the cost vs value ratio improved nationally for every project in this year's survey and is higher than it was 2 years ago for both remodeling and replacement projects.  As a matter of fact, in some cities some of the projects were actually showing a return of over 100%.


The report also determined that homeowners are continuing to scale back their plans by not adding on but repurposing the spaces they have.  The findings indicated that they are planning the home remodel in phases to spread the cost over time, being conservative when choosing fixtures and finishes and transferring the savings to be able to afford higher priced items that are more essential or desirable.

Here are a couple of small projects for adding storage to a small kitchen in a minor kitchen makeover.  See Houselogic for more ideas for small kitchen projects.



As you consider any home improvement projects, it is very important to try to work with the footprint you already have to stay reasonably priced.  Moving plumbing gets expensive.  For creative ideas in any remodel project you are doing, I would suggest following Sarah Susanka, author of The Not So Big House and other books that are filled with great ideas for large living.

If you are contemplating some changes in your home, please contact me to arrange for a private consultation or a complete copy of the cost vs value list for St Louis.  With all of the houses I see and show to clients, I have a "feel" for the trends and improvements that would add value to your home when it's time to sell. 

Unique Needs/Unique Solutions - Respecting Individuality
Barb Heise
Keller Williams Realty STL
(314) 677-6046
www.BarbaraHeise.com




Posted by

"Unique Needs/Unique Solutions. Respecting individuality."

Barbara Heise, Keller Williams Realty, STL.  

 

UniqueSolutions@barbaraheise.com


    

Ki Gray
SkiHomes.com LLC - Aspen, CO
SkiHomes.com - the ultimate snowsport home search!

Great to get positive ROI.  Very useful home improvement tips - thanks a lot!

Feb 04, 2013 08:16 AM
Mark Horan
Resident Team Realty, LLC & Toni's Property Management LLC - Saint Cloud, FL
"The Resident Chef" - Resident Team Realty LLC &

Barbara,  Great home improvement tips for any home owner looking to sprce up the place

Feb 04, 2013 08:49 AM
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Chicago, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

Barbara, why people who are selling don't focus on the front door, I will never understand. Perhaps they should, the potential buyer's do! One chance for a first impression! Enjoy your day!

Feb 04, 2013 08:44 PM
Barbara Heise
Keller Williams Realty STL - Saint Louis, MO
Search for Homes for Sale in St. Louis

I must admit that I have always suggested to sellers that they make sure the key works and that the door is freshly painted but I have not been suggesting they change the door.  For 2 years in a row now it has been #1 on Cost vs Value, you would think I would get it.  The door I have pictured on this page was recently installed on my most recent listing (sold fast) and I THINK that MAYBE I'm starting to get it.  My momma didn't raise no dummies!?!  Thanks everyone for your comments.

Feb 04, 2013 09:25 PM