Home Improvement

Which home remodel projects get the best return on investment?  As a Realtor, it’s a question I get asked quite often.  Kitchens and bathrooms steal the renovation spotlight, but are not necessarily the best return on investment when you sell your home.

The trade magazine for builders and contractors, “Remodeling” has been tracking the cost vs value added since 2002.  The projects that consistently rank the highest have four common characteristics:

• Low maintenance
• Good quality – but not necessarily the highest
• Energy efficient
• Not too costly

The top 5 projects with the best return on investment.

What is the top return on your investment?  Replacing your front door year in and year out, is the winner. 

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There are lots of things that can be done to increase home energy efficiency and save you money.  While some are simple, others are more complex and might require the help of a professional.

Some of the more simple tips include taking the cover plates off your light switches and placing a rubber gasket and replacing the cover plate.  Lots of air seeps through the walls and this helps to prevent that.  Check for air leaks around all doors, windows, fireplaces, attic access, ceilings, light fixtures, and electrical outlets.  Check and replace worn weather stripping around windows and doors.

Adding additional insulation in the attic is a very cost effective way to cut down on your monthly utilities.  This is a quick way to greatly increase the energy efficiency of your home.   Install attic air barriers such as wind baffles along the entire attic eave help ensure proper air flow from soffit to attic.  This will help control moisture in the attic and reduce your summer cooling costs.  If your home still feels cold in the winter and hot in the summer you may need to add insulation and home wraps to your exterior walls.  This is a little more difficult and may require

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