Home Improvements…Which one gives you the most bang for your buck?

Spring has sprung which means that this is the time of year that most of us start thinking about home improvements.  The nice weather reminds us to clean out our garage, get our lawn fertilized, and to start working on the lists of things “to do” around the house.

Which home improvement gives you the most bang for your buck?  It might not be what you expect to hear.  According to the Remodeling 2011–12 Cost vs. Value Report (www.costvsvalue.com) the top three home improvements that have the highest rate of return on your original investment are:  Deck Additions, Siding Replacement, and Window Replacement.  Your rate of return is figured by taking the typical resale amount of the improvement and dividing it by your initial investment.

If you are surprised that adding a kitchen or bathroom wasn’t at the top of the list, you are not the only one.  If you surveyed  most homeowners and professionals they would guess that the higher the investment in the home improvement, the higher the return. However, the unique thing about a deck is that it adds to your overall living space without a large investment.  Deck areas are becoming more popular as people are using them as an outdoor living area.  Adding unique deck lighting, planters, fire pit areas, and pergolas gives a deck an overall cozy feeling.  It allows your family and guests to be comfortable while being able to enjoy the Spring, Summer, and Fall seasons.

So start doing your research, draw up your deck plans, and head out to your local home improvement store.  You will not only enjoy your outdoor living space but will also love the return on investment at selling time.