Cost v. Value Survey: What Does it Mean?

The most recent Cost vs. Value survey, prepared annually by Remodeling Magazine, shows that nationally, only the replacement of the front entry door netted a return in excess of cost.  The next best investments were for converting an attic into usable space and adding siding.  These renovations came to close to being recouped out of sales.  By comparison, a remodeled bathroom, netted only 68% and a remodeled kitchen netted only 66.5% of the cost. 

This means that a savvy buyer - who sees that there have been recent renovations - will be able to get that renovated bath or kitchen for a fraction of its cost. If the renovations suit your taste, that’s a bargain!

For a seller, it means:  save your money.  Spend your money on repairs and other, relatively inexpensive, things that will increase "curb appeal".  See an earlier post for more suggestions to get yourt house ready for sale.

There are a couple of books, that can give you some tips such as Ortho's book, but even with that, check the survey and see if it is likely that you will recoup your costs when you sell.