The National Association of Realtors is reporting that curb appeal may be just the way to get the most out of your investment.

They have reported for the second year that exterior remodeling projects return the most money as a percentage of cost.

"Because today’s buyers have much more to choose from in the way of inventory, any home for sale must make a positive first impression," said National Association of Realtors® President Charles McMillan, a broker with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Dallas-Fort Worth. "As a trusted source for real estate information, Realtors® understand what attracts and motivates their buyer clients, which is why the results of this year’s Cost vs. Value report underscore the importance of curb appeal in the buyer’s eye."

Looking for the biggest return? Then think wood deck additions and siding replacement.

The least returns are being seen in home office remodels, sunroom additions, and back-up power generators, returning only 54.4 percent, 56.6 percent, and 57.1 percent, respectively, of project costs.

Published: December 3, 2008

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