According to the Remodeling magazine improvement costs are not as readily recouped as they were in previous years.Some improvements may be worth the effort and this is where the professional experts come in.



Ask for advice. They know the feeling in the current market, and they know what expensive and inexpensive changes to your home will really make a difference.

Sometimes all is needed is cleaning the carpet, painting the walls and removing any wallpaper. If this is your plan, then stick to the neutrals. Whites, grays and beiges not only make a home look cleaner and more spacious; they actually bring in more light and will blend in with your prospective buyers' color scheme. There are lots of plusses for neutrals.

Step outside and spend time in the garden and attending to what is called 'curb appeal'. Stand at the curb and see what your prospective buyer will look at. Plants are so cheap, yet can put a positive spin on the front yard.Keep the lawn short and trim the edges of the path.

If you need vinyl siding or new window frames, then these are two of the most lucrative improvements you can undertake. Each if these improvements will return more than 80% on the purchase price, so it is money well spent.

Above all else, make sure the bathroom is clean. If you have a cracked tile, take the time to replace it. Check that the sink and toilet and toilet seat are immaculate. A new toilet is only $250 and you are trying to sell this home for thousands! Don't economize unwisely.

Definitely a new coat of paint is needed in a bathroom. Choose a bright clean color scheme like white and pale blue or white and yellow or, best of all, neutrals.

Lighting is important in a bathroom; it can be effective yet very inexpensive. Good lighting will be needed for applying make up and for reading in the bath. For ambiance you will need to add some subdued lighting alternatives, and use pink or amber bulbs.

The new buzz is that the bathroom is becoming the in-house haven so be experimental with atmosphere. Add a plant or a candle or have a CD player softly playing generic music.

If you are anxious to sell, why don't you pay for your own home inspection? Have photocopies to give buyers. Ask the inspector to price your quote for a before and after report. That way you can improve on some of the flaws he finds and then get it re-checked for soundness that will be written into the new report.

Even if you are selling a house that needs some work, it is a good idea to let the buyer see a report to assess the situation. Many people know they can get a good deal on a property if they are prepared to take on renovations.

Offering the photocopies will not only speed up any offer, it will also show you have confidence in your property and it will bring a measure of trust into the deal.