7 Home Improvements to Increase Your Home's Value

With the deadline for the home tax renovation credit just around the corner, many home owners are asking "What renovations will get me the best return for my investment?"

Below are the top seven home improvements from MoneyCrashers.com along with some personal tips to help increase your homes value when completing your renovations.

1. Remodel the kitchen - Take into account the value of your home. If your home is worth around $750,000.00 you should consider a $50,000.00 kitchen makeover. If you home is worth $250,000.00, you should invest $5,000.00 - $10,000 in your renovation. Instead of new cupboards, try refinishing the ones you have. New flooring, upgraded counter tops, sinks and fixtures are great items to address and can also be inexpensive.
2. Remodel the bathrooms - this does not need to be a lot of work. Simple updates in things such as a new vanity, flooring and fixtures can add great value and can be completed for less than $5,000.00. If you have one of those older bathrooms, with a yellow, green or even pink tub and toilet perhaps consider Bath Fitters. With excellent and inexpensive options, Bath Fitters can transform your bathroom in as little as one day! You can get more information about Bath Fitters at www.Bathfitters.com
3. Install a privacy fence - by installing a privacy fence you will get good return for your money! Not only will you give your property some privacy, but you home will also appeal to Buyers with children and pets.
4. Replace the windows - New windows help improve energy efficiency in your home. With the new "Mandatory Home Energy Audit" set to become Provincial legislation next spring, new windows will not only benefit a Buyer for your home, but also yourself when it comes time to sell. At the time of a viewing, most Buyers will ask the question "how old are the windows?"
5. Finish your basement - adding drywall, flooring and ceilings can expand your living space very quickly, and add value to your home.
6. Replace your roof - just like windows, one of the first questions Buyers ask when viewing a home is "How old is the roof?" When we talk about the roof we don't just mean the shingles. Replace the sheathing while you're up there to ensure any old damage is completely repaired. If your house is compared to the neighbours house and yours has a new roof you'll likely be at an advantage.
7. Add a deck - What a great place to entertain and barbecue. Decks are a great selling feature, and they never go out of style.

Hopefully you still have time to take advantage of the tax credit available until February 1, 2010. For more information on the this rebate click here.

HAPPY RENOVATING!!

Top seven tips compiled from www.MoneyCrashers.com. Tip explanations courtesy of www.MoneyCrashers.com and REALTOR® Amie Trinder.