Home Improvements--Do they add value?

One question Realtors often get from homeowners is "What if I {insert home improvement project here}? Will it increase the value of my home?" While it is usually a good idea to make necessary repairs before putting your home on the market, major projects like adding a bathroom or a swimming pool may not be worth the cost. You don't want to put $50,000 into a major project only to learn that it only increases the sales price of your home by $20,000. Now if you plan on living in your home indefinitely do what makes you happy--put in the pool, the sun room and remodel the kitchen. That is one of the things that makes home ownership appealing--the ability to do what you want with your property! However, if you're thinking of selling your home in the next few years consider the advice in this article http://money.msn.com/home-loans/10-cash-wasting-home-improvements and consult your local Realtor for more information about home values in your area.