Top 15 Home Updates from HGTV

In this competitive selling market, there are two things that can be done to sell your home faster than the neighborhood competition. 1) select the appropriate selling price and marketing strategy with the assistance of a Realtor, or 2) Have more updates than all the other homes in your area.

# 1 is easy as long as there's enough juice in the deal to satisfy the bank at closing, and you're comfortable with what's left.

# 2 can be a little more complex... what updates should I perform, how much should I spend, and will I get any of that investment back at the sale? All valid questions and all difficult to forecast (if not impossible).

HGTV posted this general guideline and I thought it was interesting enough to outline the info, as well as provide a link to the article. Enjoy the read, and happy remodeling.

In order, from greatest return on investment to least return:

Minor bathroom remodel - 102% return. Consider replacing flooring, reglazing tub, recaulking and regrouting tubs and surrounds, replace or install tired glass shower doors, replace counter tops sinks and vanities, light fixtures. Remove outdated wall coverings and replace with fresh neutral paint schemes.

Landscaping - 100% return - Curb appeal is everything. Make the home look great for MLS photos, and build drive by desire. Trim overgrown trees and shrubs, plant flowers and shrubs that add color and vibrancy to the yard. Replace or replant areas of the lawn that need help.

Minor kitchen remodel - 98.5% return - Kitchens that are functional and modern win the race. If you've lived in the home since it was built and haven't done anything to update this area, it likely needs a make-over. Minor remods may include refacing (or repainting) cabinets, new counter tops with modern colors (consider Corian or granite depending on budget), update sinks and fixtures. Add recessed lighting, and definately get rid of the chicken patterned wall paper, opting for neutral warm colored paint.

Basement remodel - 73% return - The key here is don't overdo it. Adding a wet bar or bathroom is extravagant and can lend itself to your enjoyment, but extreme costs may not be recovered in the short term. Chopping up a basement isn't recommended either, too many walls and rooms can detract from the usable floor space of a basement. Consider dropped ceilings and appropriate flooring for warmth. Establish well defined entertaining areas, and if the budget permits, drywall the perimeter and any storage areas or rooms you develop.

For more complete details regarding these and other improvements, check out this link http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/rm_kitchen_bath_remodeling/article/0,1797,hgtv_3749_4969950,00.html