Remodeling That Pays

Review your remodeling contract carefully and adjust it to make sure it protects you in terms of payments, work schedules, and project specifications. Read

You’re ready to remodel but you want to make sure you get the best contractor for the job. Here’s what to ask the candidates before you decide. Read

Doing home-improvement jobs yourself can be a smart way to save money, but choose the right DIY projects or you’ll end up paying dearly. Read

To calculate how much remodel you can afford, follow these four steps: Ballpark the cost, establish a spending limit, make a wish list, and set your priorities. Read

Whether to move or improve is a harder question to answer than it was a few years ago, but a few cost-benefit calculations can help you make the right decision. Read

A master suite addition returns an average of 60% of its cost, as long as you keep improvements in line with other homes in your neighborhood. Read

An attic bedroom remodel adds value to your home and valuable living space without increasing the size of your house. Read

A high return on investment makes a deck addition a worthwhile home improvement project. Read

On average, a garage addition recoups about 60% of the investment, with the highest rates of return on a basic rather than an upscale job. Read

Because it adds valuable living space without increasing your home’s footprint, a basement remodeling project offers a high return on your investment. Read

If you want to add a fireplace to your existing home, ask yourself what value it brings to you and your property. Read

A master suite addition can run into hundreds of thousands of dollars, but with smart planning you can cut costs without compromising on amenities. Read

Converting your basement into living space requires being aware of building codes and understanding special requirements. Read

Decide whether a bathroom addition is right for you by evaluating the project cost versus the potential increase in home value. Read

An attic bedroom might be your solution for adding living space without the complication of easements or zoning regulations. Read

When planning a kitchen remodeling project, keep the same footprint, add storage, and design adequate lighting so that you preserve value and keep costs on track. Read

Here’s how to plan a new deck that suits your property, meets your budget, and offers the best return on your investment. Read

When planning a garage addition, you’ll need to consider size, siting, access, and how the garage relates to the architecture of the house. Read

The success of any landscaping project, regardless of how much money you spend, depends on having a plan and sticking to it. Read