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Buying Replacement Windows
While most buyers of double glazing are looking for replacement windows to help reduce their energy costs, or because their old windows are rattling in their frames, there's a whole class of buyers who are 'trading up' - replacing perfectly good ...
Christmas Decorating Ideas
The time has come to start putting up Christmas decorations.
But, before you rush off to your local store to buy this year's
collection of baubles, wreaths and garlands, think carefully
about your decorating theme. Christmas themes can vary...
Home Improvements – The Fun Stuff
Planning home improvements necessarily involves addressing numerous practical matters. That doesn’t mean you should ignore the fun stuff!
The Fun Stuff
The first thing to plan for in home improvements is the practical stuff. The second thing...
How to Install a New Toilet in 5 Easy Steps.
If your toilet is old and in need of repairs, it is cheaper to replace it by installing a new one. This is quite easy to do and can be completed in an afternoon. However, if you plan to install a toilet in a new location, you will have to extend...
Second Mortgage for Home Improvement
Now that you have been in your home for a few years and you have established some equity, you may be considering doing some home improvement with a second mortgage.
Home improvement comes in many forms. Such as a new kitchen, bathroom, roof,...
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Home Improvements That Increase Your Home’s Resell Price
One of the best things you can do as a homeowner is to use some of your home equity dollars to finance home improvements. Not only will the additions make your home more attractive and pleasant to live in, but certain projects will bring a significant return on investment when the time comes to sell your home. The following 5 projects have been proven to add extra dollars to the average home resell prices. The statistics are courtesy of “Remodeling Magazine.” ROI stands for “return on investment”
1. Minor Kitchen Remodeling: Average cost = $8,655. Average ROI = 88%.
A minor kitchen remodel usually includes replacing the cabinets and countertops with higher quality materials or increasing the total amount of cabinet storage and countertop surface area. It would also most likely include the addition or upgrade of appliances such as garbage disposals, built in microwaves, dishwashers, and higher quality refrigerators.
2. Bathroom Remodel: Average cost = $9,135. Average ROI = 81%
This project would include things such as installing attractive countertops such as stone, granite, or marble. The fixtures would need to be upgraded and the shower and bathtubs should be resurfaced. Also, any tiling would need to be grouted. Other things that could increase the value of a bathroom remodel would be adding an extra sink basin, converting a bathtub to a Jacuzzi, or installing additional showerheads.
3. Major Kitchen Remodel: Average cost = 31,090. Average ROI = 71%
The major kitchen remodel is very costly and will take much more work than the minor remodel. The major version will require all appliances
to be replaced. Whenever possible, appliances should be made in stainless steel. The countertops should be made of stone or granite. The floors might be replaced with high quality laminate flooring. The addition of a kitchen island or a centrally located stove could work. For a major kitchen remodel, you should consult a contractor and possible an interior designer. This is definitely not a do it yourself project.
4. Outside Deck: Average cost = $8,022. Average ROI = 55%
The deck is self-explanatory. The larger the deck, the higher the return on investment will be. The deck should obviously be coated with a nice looking finish that matches the outside of your home, and needs to be treated with a high quality water seal.
5. Hardwood Flooring: Average cost = Varies. Average ROI = Varies
The cost and return on hardwood flooring varies greatly based upon the total amount of rooms and surface area is remodeled. Also, the choice in the variety of hardwood will impact the value. Certain woods like Oak and Cherry are more valuable than others. Also, it is very important to properly maintain your hardwood floors. Flooring that is scraped, scratched, dull, or water stained can actually decrease the value of your home. If you have active children, you might want to stick to carpeting.
About the author:
Nicollette Dial is a freelance author who comes from a family of contractors. She contributes to several home improvement websites, including http://www.allhardwoodflooring.info
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