According to the Remodeling Cost vs.Value Report for 2010-11 in West South Central area of Austin, TX, kitchen remodels, master bedroom suite additions and two-story additions are the top remodels for recouping costs when the time comes to put your house on the market. According to The National Association of Realtors, houses that have been remodeled or re-built sell faster than houses with no real improvements.
REMODELS
| Remodeled Area | Average Costs | Average of Cost Recouped |
| Minor kitchen remodel | 30K | 72.8% |
| Major kitchen remodel | 85K | 68.7% |
| Bathroom remodel | 25K | 64.1% |
| Home Office Remodel | 23K | 45.8% |
ADDITIONS
| Addition Type | Average Costs | Average of Cost Recouped |
| 2-Story Addition | 149 K | 65% |
| Master Bedroom Suite Addition | 93K | 63% |
| Family Room Addition | 73K | 62.5% |
| Bathroom Addition | 40K | 53.3% |
Additionally, Avid Ratings Company recently conducted a study asking home buyers which top features they look for when buying a home. The findings partially correspond with the Remodeling Cost vs. Value report for 2010-2011, placing kitchens at the top of the list.
#1 Large kitchen with an island
#2 Energy efficient appliances
#3 Home office of study
#4 Main-floor master bedroom suite
#5 Outdoor living room
#6 Master suite soaker tubs and oversize showers with seating areas
Prior to starting a renovation, it’s best to consider these tips:
- If you’re only planning on remodeling one room, the remodel should flow with the look-and-feel of your current home for consistency sake. If you have a traditional country cottage home, building a Japanese bathroom with Shoji screens would be inconsistent with your home’s central theme.
- Don’t price your home out of the neighborhood. Research homes that recently sold in your neighborhood. Consider adding popular architectural or interior features to your own home that others homes in your area have.
- Buy additional square footage. Room additions are a great way to boost your home value!