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GREETINGS FROM VERNA ACKER
REALTY EXECUTIVES Elite
414.534.7400
FOR YOUR INFORMATION:
Real Estate Information from Western Racine County; Waterford, WI 53185
November 7, 2001

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Cost vs. Value Report for 2001

From the REALTOR Magazine, November 2001
Comfort, convenience, and aesthetic satisfaction are some of the main reasons people remodel their homes. But, just as important for many is the increase in the value of their property.

How much value a project returns depends on where the house is, what shape it is in, and the quality of the work. In some markets, value can increase by as much as the cost of the remodel and sometimes by even more.

REALTOR Magazine teamed up with Remodeling magazine for the fourth straight year to help Realtors counsel their clients on their remodeling decisions.

MINOR KITCHEN REMODEL: In the Milwaukee area.
Job cost estimate:$16,775. Resale Value: $13,167. Cost Recouped: 78%.
DESIGN TIPS: Patterning with inexpensive materials like floor tile makes this project look a little more customized. Add undercabinet lighting. Change the front edging or the backsplash to a different material

BATHROOM REMODEL: In the Milwaukee area.
Job cost estimate: $10,408. Resale Value: $8,000. Cost Recouped: 77%.
DESIGN TIPS: Paint the walls using raking, rag-rolling, or sponging for a more colorful look. Upgrade the vanity counter to a granite look. Add a row or two of accent tiles.

MAJOR KITCHEN REMODEL: In the Milwaukee area.
Job cost estimate: $41,799. Resale Value: $29,167. Cost Recouped: 78%.
DESIGN TIPS: A microwave-convection combination gives you a second oven at minimal cost. Design a focal point for the cooking area by bumping out base cabinets. Use contrasting or coordinating countertop materials, one over the base cabinet and another on the island.

FAMILY ROOM ADDITION: In the Milwaukee area.
Job cost estimate: $53,349. Resale Value: $42,000. Cost Recouped: 79%.
DESIGN TIPS: For the same cost, scissored trusses would allow for transom lights over the doors. Design window seats, benches with lift-tops, or pullout drawers for storage.

DECK ADDITION: In the Milwaukee area.
Job cost estimate: $6,001. Resale Value: $5667. Cost Recouped: 94%.
DESIGN TIPS: Design the deck as something other than a rectangle. Consider using a laminated safety glass instead of pickets for the railing, so as not to block the view. Add decorative posts with pre-made copper- topped finials or post caps.

MASTER SUITE: In the Milwaukee area.
Job cost estimate: $72,742. Resale Value: $57,000. Cost Recouped: 78%.
DESIGN TIPS: Set aside a niche area for a few chairs to give the space a more luxurious feeling. Build a bench in the shower. Use radiant floor heating in the bath.

ATTIC BEDROOM: In the Milwaukee area.
Job cost estimate: $35,995. Resale Value: $26,167. Cost Recouped: 73%.
DESIGN TIPS: Take advantage of the attic angles to create niches and built-ins. Install skylights for additional natural light. Put sound- absorption material on the floor before you lay the carpet. Instead of a shed roof, add new gable end dormers.

SIDING REPLACEMENT: In the Milwaukee area.
Job cost estimate: $7466. Resale Value: $5500. Cost Recouped: 74%.
DESIGN TIPS: Use on-half inch backer board to get a more level surface for the siding and provide extra insulation. Use decorative siding pieces or vary the pattern for contrast.

Let us know if you would like a copy of the full magazine article for other areas in the United States and complete descriptions of the nature of each project that was estimated.

GREETINGS FROM VERNA ACKER
REALTY EXECUTIVES Elite
414.534.7400
FOR YOUR INFORMATION:
Real Estate Information from Western Racine County; Waterford, WI 53185