I think that people need to think about making minor improvements too instead of breaking the bank. Replacing old worn out laminate with new, modern laminate is far, far cheaper than replacing with granite and makes the kitchen look much better. And new sink and faucet make things look nice as well.Painting the walls a neutral color, putting in a simple back splash, and new light fixtures are all cheap projects that are DIY. You Tube has great videos to show how to do these things. Painting cabinets and putting modern pulls on then spruces things up a great deal, as does laying down a laminate floor. Spending a couple of thousand and making sure the kitchen is well-organized, tastefully decorated, uncluttered and clean upon selling can make a huge difference. You will see that money returned.
Same with bathrooms. We had this awful harvest gold sink, tub, and toilet with no money for a redo. So, I painted the walls a dark earthy pottery red and went African/ethnic with the bathroom. It was fabulous! The people who bought our house loved it and asked if we would leave the decor since it was so perfect. I took lemons and made lemonade. I made something hideous work without spending a ton of money.
If you can make your place look fairly modern and keep the updates small, that is where your best bet lies.
Kimberly of TX4:43PM November 07, 2011
If you are looking for funding ideas for your renovation projects take a look at the FHA 203k and the Fannie Mae HomeStyle Renovation loan. The Energy Efficient Mortgage is also a funding tool that is finally coming of age. Many energy efficient upgrades come with local grants; federal tax credits and manufactures rebates. Nationwide I am seeing more and more local utility providers pay for the energy audit/HERS rating if the customer performs a number of the upgrades identified during the audit. Visit with your lender about these options when planning your next renovation project. Once again kudos Rachel, another interesting article with a ton of timely points.
Dustan Shepherdof KS11:16PM November 05, 2011
How do you find good refinance rates? I like "123 Refi". They gave me the option of selecting various rates with different problems. I choose the lowest rate of 3.29% BTW Remember to call and verify the loan rate. Search online to find them.
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Kimberly of TX 4:43PM November 07, 2011
Dustan Shepherd of KS 11:16PM November 05, 2011
gloriamalone39 of CA 5:32AM October 07, 2011