While buyers value home improvements made to the kitchen and the bathroom over other rooms, you should take care of any cosmetic, structural and mechanical issues throughout your home first. Most lenders require general repairs be done before issuing a home loan.

What home buyers want:
• Improve the appearance of your home especially in the bath and kitchen
• Replace appliances with the latest energy-efficient models
• Consider adding another bathroom for enhanced convenience
• A renovated attic or basement adds valuable living space to your home
• Retrofit windows with today's energy efficient models

Improvements to Avoid

If your goal is to make your home more attractive to buyers, there are also some renovations you might want to avoid.

• Don't add a swimming pool unless you live in a neighborhood where pools are considered a standard requirement. Buyers often view pools as high maintenance and even dangerous additions.
• Don’t use unusual paint colors. Your preference in colors may conflict with the buyers opinion or clash with the color of their furniture and appliances. Try to stick with neutral colors like beige or white.

Get free estimates and information about local tax credits, rebates and financing for Home Improvement.