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Expensive mistakes, or remodeling no-no's.

By
Real Estate Agent with Gold Coast Realty

 

For any home owner, the following remodels could be costly in the long run when it comes time to sell your home. 1- Don't overbuild for the neighborhood. You only get about an 80% return when you add a family room or master suite. 2- Don't make changes that don't fit in with the general architecture of your home. 3- Don't completely alter the purpose of a room.  If you want to make a bedroom and office by installing computer desks, storage, rewiring, etc. you may only get about 70% of your original cost upon sale. 4- Unless you're a licensed contractor, you shouldn't do it yourself, unless you are confident that you can complete the task-Home Depot ads not withstanding. 5- Everyone underestimates remodeling costs, even when it's a do-it-yourself project. Plan on spending 20-30% more in both money and time on your project. 6- If you're getting ready to sell the only remodeling that pays fully for itself, is minor kitchen remodeling; mid-range bathroom remodeling and adding dual pane windows. A paint job prior to sale also helps the home feel "fresh 7- One of the best things you can do for your biggest investment is maintain it.  By regularly cleaning gutters, checking for termites and dry rot, fixing leaky roofs, replacing old appliances, etc."