Good question. And it is one that is asked a lot. Most importantly, you have to consider the return on your investment BEFORE you begin remodeling.   Not every home-improvement / remodel project yields the same return when it comes to increasing the value of your home. (if you are making the improvement with increasing the value of your home in mind, that is)

The best investment, typically, is updating your kitchen and baths. (in most cases, a dollar-for-dollar increase in home resale value)    When you do decide to sell, having an updated kitchen is a feature that many home buyers are looking for.    

And at the opposite end...  the projects that typically yield the lowest return on your investment include  adding a sport court or swimming pool, or converting your basement into a family room.   

Sometimes, the total effect of several smaller projects can yield a higher resale value than a larger project.   Smaller projects (more cosmetic) new paint, doors or windows     Larger projects that add living space may cost more, but almost always add less resale value for the money spent.

BE CAREFUL OF OVER-IMPROVING FOR YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD.   If your remodel project significantly improves your property over neighborhood homes, you won't return as much when it comes time to sell.

 
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