7 Home Remodeling Projects with the Best Return on Your Investment

 
 

Putting money out for a home renovation can be a challenging decision, especially when you don’t have a clear idea of how much value it will add to your home in the long run.

Some of that uncertainty can be attributed to the labor or material costs, while the most pressing challenges are rooted in renovations or remodeling projects that do not offer a higher return rate on your investment.

With the costs of most goods rising every year, it would be wise to choose projects that can deliver the highest return on your investment in the form of a higher home value. To give you more insight, here are seven of the best remodeling projects that bring you the most ROI.

Garage Door Replacement

Garage door replacement is, across the country, one of the safest remodeling projects that you can undertake. The average ROI on a garage door replacement is 93.3% for an average investment of $4,041. As a result, many defer to garage remodeling as their first choice, especially when on a tight budget. 

In addition, when getting a new garage door, it is imperative to ensure that you are not compromising on quality. Make sure to get a door with a lifetime warranty and for the materials to be long-lasting. For example, aim for galvanized steel for the door tracks and one of the multi-layered four square designs for the door itself. A way to save some cash could be to retain the motor from your previous garage door unless it has degraded over the years. 

Manufactured Stone Veneer

Many homeowners find manufactured stone veneer attractive due to conventional reasons. On top of being stylistically appealing, it helps maintain heat in winter, cools the home in summer, and is one of the most sturdy of all building materials. Besides that, it also offers one of the best returns on investment out of all remodeling projects. 

The current ROI for manufactured stone veneer is 91.4%, which is quite high given the cost that goes into labor and materials. To make that more concrete, the average cost of this renovation is $11,066, out of which you are able to recoup roughly $10,109 post-sale. 

It’s worth noting that when installing stone veneers, you will get the best results from dedicated professionals. If not installed properly, moisture can get trapped behind the walls or the walls can even fall apart if not properly caulked and sealed. A professional team will help you avoid this, so when installing a manufactured stone veneer, it’s wise not to cut any corners.

Minor Kitchen Remodel-Midrange

A kitchen remodel offers many opportunities for you to recoup your investment if the current cabinetry has good bones. At 71.2%, the return on investment in most cases is fairly reasonable, given the influence it can have on potential buyers. You can leave the cabinet sections and drawers as it is and replace only the fronts with shaker-style panels. You can also install new hardware to make sure everything looks and feels squeaky clean. 

The most pressing components of a kitchen are the cooktop/oven and refrigerator. By replacing these with the latest models, your chances of securing a high bid are increased drastically. To accentuate the aesthetics of your kitchen, replace the countertops and install a mid-tier sink and faucet. For the final touch, repaint the walls, trim, and ceiling, so every element of your kitchen resonates well with the viewer.

Siding Replacement-Vinyl and Fiber Cement

Redoing your siding is one of the guaranteed remodels that can help you attract potential buyers, so long as your house has sidings. Sidings can be one of the more tricky remodels to work on, because, in the last 50 or so years, many types of siding have been developed, some better than others. 

When landing on the right choice of siding replacement, look at the financial costs but also the localized costs in your community. Even though nationally, the siding with the best ROI is Fiber-Cement siding, other types of siding may offer a better ROI for your local community. However, the ROI on Fiber Cement is 68.3%, which is the best out of most materials. Slightly higher than vinyl siding which is sitting at 67.2%. 

Window Replacement

Replacing windows serves as a great chance to add some extra value to your home but also to staunch out-of-control electric and heating bills. One of the common ways people lose money on their heating and electricity is when old windows leak out air conditioning and heat. 

The standard choice for window replacement, wood, and vinyl are within 1% when it comes to their rate of return on investment. Vinyl is slightly higher at 67.5%, while wood sits at 66.3%. Since both replacement options are so close in terms of ROI, you can make your choice based on what works for your budget and fits the style of your home.

Deck Addition

Adding a deck to the property creates a focal point for the property but is also one of the best ways to add value to it. The ROI for adding a deck to your property is 64.8% if you use a wood deck, with a composite deck being only slightly less economically friendly with 62.1% However, once again, it is important to consider the overall style of your home and which would be more visually appealing to any future buyers.

Asphalt Shingles

When getting a roof replacement, many experts recommend that you go with asphalt shingles over the relatively more modern metal roofing. Asphalt shingles last as long as metal roofing in most cases. 

In addition, the average cost for a metal roof is nearly double that of an asphalt roof, with a metal roof averaging about $51,436 compared to the $31,535 for an asphalt roof. All things considered, there are other factors that can sway your decision, such as initial costs, duration of the remodel, and extensive labor costs, so be mindful of those.

Keep reading on CoreFinanceGroup.com

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The U.S. Housing Market Has Peaked

 
 

But no, we’re not headed for anything even close to 2008.

If you’ve tried to buy a home in the past two years, you have my most profound sympathies. Your experience has probably gone something like this: You found your dream home online; sent photos around to your family; visited the premises (or decided to buy, sight unseen); got your financial statements in order; smartly offered 10 percent over asking; and learned, several hours later, that no fewer than 831 other people had bid for the same house, which sold to a couple who paid 50 percent over asking, all cash, and cinched the deal with a contract amendment promising to name their firstborn child after the seller.

Yes, the American real-estate market really has been historically hellish, or historically hot, depending on whether you were trying to buy a home or sell one. Within the past year, just about every housing statistic you could imagine set some kind of berserk record. Home prices hit a record high, the share of homes that sold above asking hit a record high, and the number of available homes for sale hit a record low.

But the vibe is shifting. I count at least three signs that the national housing market is about to experience a significant slowdown.

First, as the Federal Reserve raises interest rates to combat inflation, mortgage rates are soaring. In April, the 30-year fixed rate surpassed 5 percent for the first time in more than a decade. As borrowing becomes more expensive, so does buying.

If you take the long view, financing a house is still pretty cheap. The 30-year rate is lower today than it was for any month except one (June 2003) from the 1990s to the Great Recession. But on an annualized basis, rates are rising faster than at any time in 40 years. Buyers seem to have anticipated this moment. In the late winter, one index of housing prices hit its highest month-to-month increase ever, which might suggest that home buyers said “Ah, screw it!” and made ridiculous offers to lock in a cheaper mortgage rate, just before rates took off.

Second, the number of homes for sale—a.k.a. housing inventory—is finally perking up after plunging to all-time lows during the pandemic.

In the hottest markets, such as California and Colorado, the number of available homes is increasing significantly faster than the national average, according to Altos Research, while the share of new listings going into contract “immediately” (meaning within days, or even hours) is declining quickly.

Inventory doesn’t sound as sexy as home prices, but this might be the single most important statistic to watch. “My view has been that the market shift will show up first in inventory, [because] as inventory increases, house-price growth will slow,” says Bill McBride, a real-estate and economics writer.

In 2006, McBride famously called Americas housing bubble when he saw inventory skyrocketing to absurd highs. Today doesn’t look anything like 2006, he assured me. During the worst of the housing crash, inventory as a share of the market was about five times higher than it is today. Instead, McBride said that the next few years will likely resemble the period around 1980. To combat high inflation from the 1970s, the Fed Chair Paul Volcker hiked up interest rates, jolting the economy into a deep recession. The housing market basically stalled until 1982. That sort of stall-out, rather than some crazy plunge into the abyss, is probably our worst-case scenario.

Finally, we can already see these technical statistics—rates, percents, inventory—playing out in the real world. Google searches for homes for sale are falling in major cities, including Boston and Los Angeles. Redfin agents in California say that showings and offers are down double digits since last year. In Minneapolis, showings have fallen rapidly in just the past month.

May and June are historically the most popular months to buy a home. That means that the housing slowdown might be delayed for a few weeks, as the spring surge works its way through the system. But by this summer, sellers expecting dozens of offers in a matter of days could be in for a rude awakening. Before long, flush wannabe homeowners—those lucky enough to be somewhat insulated from rising mortgage rates—will be able to buy without sacrificing the naming rights of their firstborn. Things won’t feel great for everyone. But historically speaking, they just might feel normal.

Keep reading on The Atlantic.

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Just Listed: Single Level Sanctuary in Chesnut Park

 
 
 

This single level sanctuary awaits you. An ideal Bend location combined with a comfortable and versatile floorplan provide an incredible value for this extremely well-maintained and lightly lived in home.

Move-in ready with clean, sleek finishes throughout including durable vinyl plank flooring, granite counters, stainless appliances, and an ultraefficient Lopi gas stove that heats the entire home. Low-maintenance landscaping complete with a front and back yard sprinkler system. The super safe and friendly west side neighborhood is conveniently located near Bend’s newest elementary school North Star, Harvest Park, Sawyer Park, Riley Ranch Reserve and lots of shopping. Easily hop on the Deschutes River Trail to get to Downtown Bend and just two minutes to Target and Trader Joe’s, this hidden gem neighborhood and home is not one to miss.

Listed by Greg Pieraccini for West + Main Homes. Please contact Greg for current pricing + availability.

 
 
 

Have questions?
West + Main Homes
westandmain.co
hello@westandmainoregon.com

Presented by:
Greg Pieraccini
(541) 233-3422
gregp@westandmainoregon.com


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Happening in Bend this May

 
 

The fifth month of the year is half way over! Looking to take advantage of the rest of your May in beautiful Bend? Look no further.

Rumor has it, there’s always something happening in Bend. And you know what? The rumors are true. It’s safe to say there’s always an event going on in our bustling little mountain oasis.

Events in Bend are chock full of fun, culture, action, and even delicious food and beverages. From family-friendly festivals to art walks, beer-fests, outdoor concerts, marathons, or a bike race, there’s probably an event happening that you won’t want to miss.

Family-friendly events like Oregon WinterFest, Bend Summer Festival, and Balloons Over Bend will keep the youngins entertained with kid-friendly activities and plenty of welcoming entertainment for the whole family.

For the grownups, how about sampling some of the area’s best-tasting hoppy, hazy, dark, balanced, and all-out delicious locally crafted brews. Sample your favorite beers and ciders or discover a new favorite at The Bend Brewfest or the Central Oregon Winter Beer Festival.

Got a foodie or two in the group? Be sure to check out the Bite of Bend, a three-day food party where you can taste local flavors from chefs, bartenders, brewers, and food enthusiasts from the area. Or head over to Munch and Music for a perfect blend of live music in the park paired with a few treats from some of Bend’s best food trucks.

If you’ve got a hankering for art and live music, then be sure to add Art in the High Desert, First Friday Art Walk, and a live outdoor concert at the Hayden Homes Amphitheater, where you’ll hear big names and get spectacular views of the Deschutes River and the Cascade Mountains.

Or, if you’re looking to hit the ground riding or running, there are plenty of local bike and running events. For bikers, gear up with Mudslinger events like the High Cascades 100, the Best of Both, or Ring of Fire. Runners will have fun and make miles at the Bend Marathon, Bend Beer Run, or The Dirty Half.

Live Music At The Grove!

May 19
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

The Grove 921 NW Mt. Washington Dr, Bend, OR

Join us for live music at The Grove all summer long! Thursday & Saturday nights from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Check the event calendar for who is playing at www.waypointbbc.com

Suttle Lodge’s Fireside Series

May 19
5:30 pm - 8:00 pm

The Suttle Lodge & Boathouse 13300 Highway 20, Sisters, OR

Join us for live music most Thursdays! Check out our happenings page for more information and to purchase tickets. All ages welcome. Tickets are FREE for guests staying overnight at the Lodge with RSVP. Please email info@thesuttlelodge.com to RSVP within 72 hours of show. Proof of vaccination and picture ID required at the door with […]

Something Dirty at Walt Reilly’s

May 20
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Walt Reilly's 225 SW Century Dr, Bend, OR

Something Dirty is a collaboration of four musicians who each bring unique influences and musical experience to the band's sound. The combination results in unexpectedly catchy rock songs that get heads bopping and bodies moving. We are excited to welcome them to the Walt's stage for the first time!

Meet Me In the Ladies Room, An All Female Comedy Showcase presented by Tease Bang Boom

May 20
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

The Capitol 190 NW Oregon Ave, Bend, OR

Presented by Tease Bang Boom Productions, this all female comedy showcase is sure to be exactly what you need to bring your levels of estrogen to optimal! Featuring your host Tracee Tuesday with performers Grace Sophia, Katy Ipock, Jessica Taylor, and Deb Auchery. Tracee Tuesday is a Multimedia Journalist, Radio Personality, Blogger, Sports Reporter and, […]

$15

2022 Happy Girls Bend

May 21
8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Riverbend Park 799 SW Columbia At, Bend

We’ve got an all-new course for 2022! Grab your bestie and take in the beauty of Central Oregon as you embark on a tour of majestic scenery. You’ll be well-supported with multiple aid stations, medics and helpful event staff to make your day all about you and achieving your personal goals.

$40 – $100

Baker’s Dozen: Coffee Beer & Doughnut Festival

May 21
10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Silver Moon Brewing 24 NW Greenwood Ave, Bend, OR

13 breweries. 13 coffee roasters. 13 doughnut bakers. Admission includes samples of all the above!

$39.00

Saving Grace Heroes Celebration

May 21
11:00 am - 1:00 pm

Riverbend Park 799 SW Columbia At, Bend

The Saving Grace Heroes Celebration is an outdoor party celebrating the Heroes that make our life-saving work possible. We will have live music from The Parnells, various food trucks, libations, awesome raffle prizes, and more. This event is FREE to attend and will take place from 11am – 1pm, directly following the Happy Girls Run. […]

Live Music At The Grove!

May 21
5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

The Grove 921 NW Mt. Washington Dr, Bend, OR

Join us every Thursday & Saturday night at The Grove for some live music from 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m! Check out Waypoint's website to see who is playing.

Free!

Nghtspot : Bend Festival – Third Seven – N8ture

May 21
9:00 pm

The Capitol 190 NW Oregon Ave, Bend, OR

Nghtspot : Bend is a 3 day festival of techno, house, and bass music located underground in Downtown Bend // - Third Seven - N8ture - Codi Carroll - Special Guest -

$21.50

Prep Presents: Market Day

May 22
11:00 am - 2:00 pm

Prep - A Chefs' Kitchen 212 NE Revere Avenue, BEND, OR

Prep - A Chefs' Kitchen is hosting a vendor event to support the clients we have in our kitchen. Come down with your family and friends to support locally made Bend products!

Free

Central Oregon Symphony Spring Concert Series 2022

May 22
7:30 pm - 9:00 pm

Bend High School Auditorium 230 NE 6th Street, Bend, OR

The Central Oregon Symphony season finale is fast approaching. On Sunday, May 22, 2022, two performances (2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.) will take place in the Bend High School Auditorium. The 2:00 p.m. performance will also be livestreamed. Approximately one hour in length and without intermission, the concerts will feature one of the Central Oregon […]

Free

Get the full list of events on VisitBend.com

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Homeowners are Seeking Roommates to Help Pay Their Mortgages

 
 

More buyers in the U.S. are opening up to the idea of renting out a room as expenses surge.

Buying a home may seem like a distant dream for many in today’s cutthroat housing market. That is, unless they’re willing to share that dream with a roommate or two. 

With the average U.S. mortgage rate above 5% and home prices at record highs, homeownership feels increasingly out of reach, particularly for young, first-time buyers. To make it work, some are renting out rooms or basements and using the extra income to help offset their costs. 

The practice, which has long been accepted in the U.K. and other European countries, is spreading to the U.S., where the number of buyers who considered renting out a portion of their homes for rental income rose to 31% in 2021 from 24% two years earlier, according to real estate website Zillow’s consumer housing trends report

“That increase in homeowners becoming residential landlords is consistent with the trend we see of buyers coming from a younger generation of side-hustlers aging into the housing market,” said Zillow economist Manny Garcia.

A Lucrative Side Hustle

Here's why homeowners are renting spare rooms for extra cash (%)

 
 

For some, the extra rental income is the only way they can afford to keep up with their mortgage payments and bills that are going through the roof thanks to roaring inflation. That’s why 24-year-old Josh Bowser and his now-fiancé went into the housing market looking for a property with additional rooms to lease.

Bowser knew he had to be strategic with his finances after graduating from college during pandemic-driven economic turmoil and a tight housing market. By living frugally, the young couple saved enough to put a down payment on a three-bedroom townhouse in a North Atlanta suburb in June 2021.

Their $2,200 monthly mortgage cost would have been a “stretch” with their combined incomes, Bowser said. So they found a tenant on Facebook Marketplace who pays $1,000 in rent to live in the second bedroom, subsidizing 45% of their monthly housing bills.  

To cover even more of their monthly costs, the young couple plan to rent out another small guest room downstairs.

“My fiancé and I just split the remainder of our housing expenses, which is probably less than what we'd be paying if we were renting. Instead, it’s going to the principal on our mortgage,” Bowser said.

Sharing a Home

Thanks to apps like Uber and Airbnb, younger generations are accustomed to sharing everything with strangers, from car rides to short-term rentals. It’s not a stretch to extend that concept to their own homes, particularly for millennials, who have about 20% less wealth than their parents had at their age and are still struggling to enter the housing market.

A whopping 67% of millennials and 57% of Gen Z in the U.S. said they were willing to share their homes in exchange for cash, compared to just 34% of baby boomers, according to a 2021 Realtor.com survey

Younger generations are much more likely to rent out their homes

“Affordability was already squeezing people,” said George Ratiu, a senior economist at Realtor.com. “It’s natural to think of their biggest asset — their home — as a potential income stream.”

For Chiffon House-Williams, a homeowner in Teaneck, New Jersey, the extra income erased any doubts she had about having roommates. 

“I’d never considered renting out my basement to a stranger before. It’s my house; that’s my safe haven,” said House-Williams. “But after I had to quit my job,  I thought, ‘Wait, this can be my income.’”

After the 36-year-old mom stopped working to take care of her son while he attended school virtually during the pandemic, she and her husband hired contractors in March 2020 to transform their basement into a one-bedroom apartment, outfitting the space with a standing shower, a kitchenette and a separate entrance for about $22,000 total. 

The couple used the app SpareRoom to find 42-year-old tenant Laura Martin, who has been paying $1,100 in monthly rent since 2021. House-Williams says they will have earned their money back and turned a profit by the end of this year. 

They’ve decided to do more renovations to make even more space to rent out. With plans to let her attic as well as her basement, House-Williams expects she’ll be raking in $21,000 a year in rental income. 

“I’m always thinking about how I can make money without putting in too much effort, that’s just how my brain is wired,” House-Williams said. “By renting out rooms, I’m literally making money in my sleep.” 

Keep reading on Bloomberg.

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