Kitchen remodeling projects and bathroom additions return up to 90 percent of the cost but a basement usually pays back less than 50 percent of cost.

A new heating or air conditioning system can cost between $2,000 to $4,500 with an average payback of 100% for heating; 75% for air conditioning but building a pool can cost $10,000 and up with an average payback of 44%.  

If the market is slow, you'll see less of a payback than in a fast market. Also, you conform to the neighborhood . If one adds on to house until it's much larger than other homes in the neighborhood, it won't necessarily increase value enough to cover the costs.


The  web sites are useful if you are thinking about making home improvements:

Improve Net gives design ideas and helps you plan your project.

Michigan State University Extension offers an online encyclopedia of topics related to home maintenance.

The Federal Trade Commission has warnings and advice on how to find a contractor.

Home Advisor at MSN.com has a chart of costs and average paybacks for typical home improvement projects. 
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Huntsville real estate and investment property.