Contemplating home renovations brings up the big questions: Is completely redoing the kitchen worth the money?
What about putting in a pool, or finally finishing the basement?
The answers depend on what you hope to gain.
If youre simply looking to enjoy the improvements, the cost-benefit ratio is easier to calculate.
Always tackle repairs first
Nobody wants to buy a house that hasnt been properly cared for.
But complete overhauls are a huge, expensive risk.
If your appliances, bathroom fixtures, or countertops are truly busted, by all means, replace them.
Its no surprise that they consistently top the power rankings of high-ROI home renovations.
you’re free to go as big or as small as your budget allows.
Replacing or even repainting your front door offers a similar return on investment.
A pre-inspection should identify any major problem areas.
The same goes for anything super-trendy.
(Its worth mentioning thatabove-ground pools do not add value, ever.)
Dontknock down walls
Open floor plansare still everywhere, but theyre steadily waning in popularity.
If youre not confident in your skills, leave it to the professionals.
But dont expect major renovations to work magic on your homes value.
Take care of major repairs, and keep the rest simple.
