For you to make up your investment you would have to price your entire investment into the price of your home -- this may make it a very overpriced home -- specially if you do not have kitchen and bath updates that your competitors may have. If the system is working, look around your competitors and see what you can do to make yourself the most competitive seller. On the other hand if you give discounts based on all the updates you do not have and still present the home properly, you could still get a sale because your price is low. If you have not obtained this already, consider getting some market analysis and sales proposals from agents.

Wed May 14 2008, 18:05

All,
I just happened to see this article on MSN's real estate page about kitchen remodels:
http://realestate.msn.com/improve/slideshow.aspx?cp-document…

I thought it was informative.

Wed May 14 2008, 11:40

Deborah,
According tohttp:// www.dailygreen.com, which is a good starting point for finding more info., homes that are "green homes" are getting 4 to 11% more than other homes. I can't verify that, but, as an agent who is trying to sell homes in a slow market with too many overpriced, underconditioned homes on the market, I'm thinking that it might just help a home stand out from the rest. There are more and more people who are concerned about rising energy costs, and if you are going to replace an old system anyway, you might be wise to consider it. There are a few online listing services that specialize in green homes.
It is huge on the west coast, and it will make its way here eventually. I would definitely do my research, though.

If you can do the essentials that really sell a home, (updated kitchen and baths) and have enough $ to do some green updates, that would be the perfect mix.

Wed May 14 2008, 11:03

Deborah
I suggest that you consult with a local Realtor. Look at other homes in the area that are similar to yours and see what features they have. I can tell you that buyers are looking for VALUE, so anything that adds value (such as lower heating bills) a buyer will appreciate. However, there are tradeoffs.

How long do you plan to stay in yoru home? Long enough to enjoy the improvements?
Generally speaking the value of investments are recouped in bath and kitchen remodels, because who make the buying decision? Other necessary, but less noticeable investments, like the roof, plumbing, have value, but the return on investment is lower.

Are you making your home more livable? Or treating is like a flip?

A Realtor can help you work through those questions.

Good luck!

Wed May 14 2008, 10:57

I would not pay for the updates. I would work on the cosmetics. Buyers usually buy based upon on emotions rather than logic. Therefore, you are better off saving your money and using it for what "impresses" buyers on the surface.

If the oil/boiler system is old, a simple home warranty may give them piece of mind. I would recommend doing more research on a home warranty plan for the boiler to make sure it can be covered.

Wed May 14 2008, 09:47

If you are already in the process of updating your home one of the PRIMARY updates you can make are to the functioning aspects of your home. Buyers want the peace of mind they can get from knowing that they will not be spending big $$$$ on the component that are necessary for a home i.e.: furnace roof hot water heater electrical systems etc. Cosmetics are affordable and easily done, the items that make a house operate are very carefully considered by buyers.

Wed May 14 2008, 09:30