Will Remodeling Increase My Home Value?

By Gabriel Traverso
Home Worth Columnist

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If you're one of the many homeowners considering selling your home, you're probably asking yourself, "How much is my house worth?" When thinking about selling, especially if you have an older home, you might consider remodeling in order to increase your home value.

We've all heard the horror stories of remodeling projects gone horribly wrong, but there are many that go very well and increase a house's overall worth dramatically. If you are considering a remodeling project, you probably want to know how much your house is worth and how much it will be worth after finishing the remodel.

The Center of the Home Universe

In today's American home, the undeniable center of the family home is the kitchen. A great deal of time is spent in the kitchen, and for many families, it is the hub of social interaction. When you consider your remodeling project, you should take a long hard look at your kitchen and consider what improvements can be made. New appliances, new counter tops, and new cabinet doors and hardware can go a long way to improve your home value.

Your Home's Curb Appeal

How your house looks has a huge impact on your house worth. When you ask, "How much is my house worth?" also ask these questions:

• What does my house look like from the street?
• Does the landscaping look inviting?
• Is the paint fading or peeling?

An extra coat of paint and a little lawn care make a big difference in improving your home's value and in making a good first impression on a potential home buyer. When you take the time to start a remodeling project, you want to make sure that you get the maximum impact out of it and really increases your house's worth. Take your time, and consider carefully before you begin.

About the Author
Gabriel Traverso is a freelance writer, independent musician and artist. He resides in Reno, Nevada.