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Which home improvements should i do to my house?

We have an old 2 family house that needs alot of work. Our plan is to fix it up and then sell it when the market goes back up. I know alot of people say not to do huge expensive projects before sellijng because you most likely won't get all your money back. So I was wondering if, from the list below, someone could tell me which I should do and which I shouldn't: -insulation -Replacement windows (old, rotten wood windows there now) -Gas heating system (only gas on gas stove as heating source now) -Paint outside house (asbestos shingles now) -Gut out the bathroom and put new shower walls, tub and sink (mold now) -Remodel small kitchen area (counters and sink are extemely low, and counter rotting around edges, and mold now)

Public Comments

1. I've included a link to the top 10 list of remodeling projects that add value to a home, pick the area you live in from the map. Based on your descriptions, You should make the house at least functional first. Tackle the heating system, an open flame on a stove is not meant to heat a home and can cause co2 buildup which is dangerous. Then take care of the mold issues by repairing/replacing kitchen/bath. I'd then do the windows and insulation then siding/painting last


2. Sounds like all these things need to be done!

   When showing to a prospective buyer, the

   things you've listed would be the FIRST things a buyer will look at.

   The thing that concerns me most are the asbestos shingles, which can be VERY harmful to your health

   http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asbestos

   I would contact a local professional, and get thier opinion on removal. not sure I'd advise painting over them.

   Then, I'd begin with the heating.

   This will most likely be your most expensive project, but climate control is VERY important. Insulating at this time would be a great idea to save on energy costs.

   Second, kitchens and baths are considered 10-20% of your home's value, so definitely spruce things up a bit there. You can find affordable kitchen cabinets and countertops that will look great, and not break you. And the mold can also be hazardous to your health.

   Obviously rotting wood windows need attention, but the before mentioned items need IMMEDIATE attention if you are living in the home. And as far as getting your money back, the improvements mentioned may be the most valuble items in the home. They should increase the value by a huge percentage.

   Hope this helps:)

   Todd



3. Since you are planning on selling it when the market goes back up, then you will be gaining value from the market as well as your improvements.

   Of course you want to do as little as possible for the greatest return on your investment. It helps to understand your existing market, since the other homes in your neighborhood will be appreciating at the same rate as yours. How does your home compare in the existing market? Did you get it for way below market value? As long as the expenses of your improvements do not exceed the current market value you should be sitting pretty. You need to know how much you can afford to spend on improvements. Develop a current market value, and subtract your costs so far, the difference between the two will give you some framework. Never just work off the house itself and old house can make constant demands. Prioritize. And know what improvements may be necessary to meet current selling laws.

   Maybe a realtor can help you, since you are planning to get it on the market, find one you like and stick with them.