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A new front door--the number one home improvement project to consider for 2010. Photo: Pella Windows and Doors
In this economy, does it make sense to put money into improving our homes? Here are 5 home fixes worth the money.
Well, our homes probably do need some TLC. According to a new survey by Pella and Kelton Research, 66 percent of homeowners in the United States admit they have a major item in their home that needs maintenance.
But what's the best project to take on? No matter where you live or whether you plan to move or not, the smartest home improvement project may also be the least expensive.
A top-dollar kitchen remodel used to be the desired project to take on because costs could always be recouped. But that shining star has faded for now, giving way to minor kitchen makeovers, according to the annual Remodeling Cost vs Value Report, newly published for 2010.
In fact, exterior doors and generators seem to be the most attractive-and affordable-home improvements du jour.
Best Bets: Top 5 Home Improvements for 2010
- Entry Door Replacement (fiberglass and steel)
- Backup Power Generator
- Basement Remodel
- Attic Bedroom
- New Roofing
The Pella survey reports that the most common home improvements for 2010 may be new carpet or flooring, followed by new exterior paint or siding.
But who better than a seasoned realtor to weigh in on which home improvement projects matter most, especially if you plan to sell within a few years? "Garage organization is huge," says Paula Miller, a West Virginia-based realtor and a regional vice president with the National Association of Realtors. "No matter where you live, everyone's garages are stuffed -- buyers want to see storage."
Miller agrees that a basement redo and moderate deck addition are desirable projects because they extend living space. She urges homeowners to forgo that gourmet kitchen update. Though buyers still expect granite and stainless, they are often willing to accept a basic, clean, workable kitchen that they can make their own.
Let's all breathe a collective sigh of relief that we don't need to keep up with the Joneses.
Source: Remodeling Cost vs Value Report 2009-2010/Hanley Wood
Miller agrees that a basement redo and moderate deck addition are desirable projects because they extend living space. She urges homeowners to forgo that gourmet kitchen update. Though buyers still expect granite and stainless, they are often willing to accept a basic, clean, workable kitchen that they can make their own.
Let's all breathe a collective sigh of relief that we don't need to keep up with the Joneses.
Source: Remodeling Cost vs Value Report 2009-2010/Hanley Wood
