estimates that energy savings add twenty times the annual savings to the value of your property. Energy savers make your house more desirable. • Make a “grand entrance.” Home sellers are advised not to underestimate the power of a front door. It is said that people make up their minds in the first seven seconds of entering a house. Buyers expect a working door bell. An overhang above the front door, such as an awning or portico, can also increase value. Buyers want a way out of the rain, or shelter from the sun while fumbling for keys, or somewhere for greeting guests. If you’re up for more exterior upgrades, move to the back or sides of the house. People get back dollar-for-dollar the costs of decks they put in. If the deck is completed with the right material so it will stay in good shape, it will hold value. • Have flooring that stands up. Don’t undervalue flooring in a home sale; 94% of real estate pros recommend spending money on floors. It doesn’t have to be a lot of money. For an estimated average investment of $600 to $900, brokers report that the return in value comes in at up to $2,000. You can spend even less than that — some well-placed nails can eliminate distracting squeaks. Other small projects with a big impact include repairing broken tile, patching damaged
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