The Cost vs the Value of Home Improvements

If you're considering multiple home improvements, you may want to weigh the cost of those projects against the value the updates will add to your home, especially if you plan to sell within the foreseeable future. If you've been wondering what projects can add the most value to your bottom line, here are a few suggestions. Real estate agents will tell you that among the key areas that help to grab a potential home buyer are the front door, the entry-way, the landscaping, the kitchen, bathrooms, and the master bedroom. If your goal is to raise your home's "sellability," start with those areas. Paint and flooring are also important. If your home needs major work, particularly projects that will incur substantial expense, such as foundation repairs, roofing, or appliance replacement, it generally makes sense to do these repairs if you plan to stay for three years or more. This is also true if you're trying to sell your home and your equity is limited. If you plan to sell soon and you have a large amount of equity in the home, you may want to simply lower the price and allow the buyer to shoulder larger repairs. You can still clear a good profit in the sale, and the buyer will feel like he or she got a better deal. The lower price may actually help you sell more quickly, since it will be below that of similar homes in the area. Room additions present another quandary. Should you add on or just move to a larger home? If you like the neighborhood, a room addition such as an enclosed patio or a bump out on a second story may make sense. But take care not to overbuild for your area, as it may make it difficult to recoup your expenses or the original integrity of the house. Before you make a firm decision about possible work, write down an estimate of your home's worth. Check your local newspaper or online listings for houses in your immediate neighborhood to help calculate its approximate value.

3 Classics American Houses

2817 Habersham Road This grand 1920's classic Atlanta home has been wonderfully renovated to offer modern day conveniences and a great entertaining flow, while retaining its unique charm and sophistication. A one-of-a-kind entry room greets visitors and serves as a graceful gallery for art. An attractive and comfortable family room is complete with a fireplace and vaulted beamed ceilings. French doors open to a patio and overlook the garden and acreage. The incredible new master wing is a retreat with a luxurious bath, plenty of closet space and serene views. A wonderful kitchen is conveniently located just steps from the driveway. Plenty of parking with a four-car garage and off-street parking. The terrace level offers a wine cellar and media room while the large guest house provides space and privacy. 3359 Woodhaven Road This sophisticated custom home was built for the current owner in 1979 and is located on one of Atlanta's best streets across from the Governor's mansion. This home is a rare find in Atlanta as it is situated on a perfectly flat lot with a daylight basement, walk-out back yard, a swimming pool and room for a tennis court. A lovely vaulted gallery living room connects the dining and kitchen areas to the immense master suite, all with views out to the backyard. The solarium provides a relaxing getaway and features a fishpond and huge windows overlooking the swimming pool. 2834 Andrews Drive Built in 1924, this stately home is situated on 2.4± acres of mature hardwoods on one of Buckhead's best streets. The spacious foyer connects, through arched doorways, to a library/study as well as a sunken living room, which leads to a covered porch with graceful arches opening to the side and rear yards. The dining room features twin French doors leading to a courtyard, pool and tennis court. Raised panel walls and moulding are repeated throughout the main level, which has three wood-burning fireplaces. The renovated kitchen adjoins a large family room. The master suite has dual baths, a dressing room and fireplace. The fifth bedroom/au pair quarters and bath are located on the third floor.