I get a lot of questions about what people should and shouldn't do to their homes to increase the value. There are some simple and some not-so-simple answers to that!
First, the simple:
Now the not so simple. Do you get 100% return on that new kitchen? If not, then you might ask, "why should I do it -- just let the new owner do it the way they want."
So, no, you probably won't get 100% return on your investment. But it will help sell your house! Most buyers want a move-in ready home. Even painting is more than they want to do, and getting into a kitchen or bath remodel is daunting to them. The result is that if they are looking at two fairly comparable homes, and one has updated kitchens and baths and the other doesn't . . . well, it is really a no-brainer. And yes, they may pay a bit more for the updated home, but it isn't likely to be the equivalent of what you invested dollar-for-dollar.
The bottom line is that there are things that you need to do to your home to help sell it, even if you don't get a full cost return. And if you plan on living in your home for 5-10 years or more, then do what makes it comfortable for you! But realize that you may have to make some changes when you are ready to sell.
Here are some things that commonly get you a good cost return:
Check out www.costvsvalue.com for other info
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With every sale I make, a contribution is made to at least one of these organizations:
RE/MAX 
