Make your Hideout home spring improvements count!

According to an article I recently read in REALTOR® Magazine, real estate professionals ranked exterior improvements projects as providing sellers with the most return on their investment. They found that buyers are being won over by "curb appeal." The exterior of a home can make or break a buyer's first impression.

As a real estate professional, I have found that sellers will always ask me what improvements they can do to help their homes sell more quickly. Remodeling magazine in cooperation with REALTOR® Magazine did  "Cost vs. Value Report" by surveying more than 3,900 appraisers, sales agents and brokers across the country who provided their opinions and estimates. They found out that exterior projects dominate the list with six out of the top 10 most cost effective midrange projects. Percentages listed are the costs recouped.

1. Entry Door Replacement (steel) 85%

2. Deck Addition (wood) 77%

3. Garage Door Replacement 75%

4, Minor Kitchen Replacement 75%

5. Window Replacement (wood) 73%

6. Attic Bedroom Addition 72%

7. Siding Replacement (vinyl) 72%

8. Window Replacement (vinyl) 71%

9. Basement Remodel 70%

10. Major Kitchen Remodle 68%