Most Valuable Home Projects for 2014

Many homeowners contemplate home improvement projects but are a bit at a loss when it comes to  calculating how much of what they spend will be returned. Remodeling Magazine's 2014 Cost vs. Value Report is a wealth of information. The report easily breaks down data relating to the most popular home improvements into national, regional and even metropolitan areas.

For our purposes, we will look at the best choices for the New England region. These projects are estimated to recoup at least 85 percent of the cost.

 

Bang for your Buck

Attic Bedroom

Make use of unused attic space by adding a bedroom and shower. Adding windows and carpet will let light flow in and give the room a true home feel. Proper insulation is key to protecting the area from heat in the summer and the winter cold. With an estimated price tag of $51,621 and resale value of $44,732, you can plan on recouping 87 percent of your initial investment.

Wood Deck Replacement

Use pressure-treated deck materials to ensure a solid build. Consider including a bench, planters, stairs and railings. With an estimated cost of $10,000 for a 16-foot by 20-foot deck, the resale value is $10,219, equaling a recoup of 101 percent.

Entry Door Replacement (Steel)

This is actually a fairly low-cost project, coming in at $1,183. But with a return of 109 percent, it is well worth it, especially given the New England winters. Steel doors are secure, energy efficient and insulate well.

Garage Door Replacement You can plan to recoup about 85 percent of the estimated $1,586 spent, and save by reusing the existing motorized opener. Vinyl Siding and Window Replacement With a cost of $11,903 and a resale value of $11,079, you'll also enjoy a low-maintenance siding option if you choose vinyl. Go a step further and replace your windows with vinyl windows and recoup 87 percent of the $10,252 it will cost. Wood window replacement are slightly more expensive at $11,257, and will recoup about 84 percent, with a resale value of approximately $9,446. Source: Remodeling Magazine's 2014 Cost vs. Value Report

Summer Home Improvements

According to a recent poll by Harris Poll, a majority of homeowners  -- 56 percent -- are planning to invest their money on home improvement projects in 2014. Twenty seven percent plan to remodel an outdoor area such as a patio, deck, pool or landscaping. Coming in next at 17 percent are bathroom remodels, with home repairs and kitchen remodels following at 16 and 11 percent, respectively.

This is all good news for Kruse Home Improvement, since we are well-equipped to help in any of these scenarios!

With summer finally upon us, let's take a look at some options for the warmer months that can help increase your home's value, along with your comfort.

Siding

Replacing or improving your siding can not only add to curb appeal, it can increase a home's value. Remodeling Magazine's Cost vs. Value Report states that a common siding replacement may result in an estimated 79 percent return on the initial investment. A good siding replacement offers the added bonus of increasing your home's energy efficiency and insulation.

Energy-Efficient Windows

Piggybacking on energy efficiency, replacing windows can do wonders. If you take advantage of the warmer months to replace old windows, you will reap the benefits come winter. Older, single-pane windows are a major warning sign to potential home buyers. Remodeling cites that you may recoup at least two-thirds of the job cost in terms of home value. If you plan on staying in your home for the long run, why not pay less on utilities and avoid the frigid drafts that come with winter?

Deck Addition

Vacations are great ... and can be expensive. Why not take advantage of your home's own outdoor space with a deck addition? It can increase your home's value, while widening your area for outside entertainment and relaxation. Read more on this in our past blogs about building your deck and decorating it.

Source(s): houselogic; Kiplinger
Photo credit: FreePhotosBank