November 2009 Table of Contents

Features
About the 2009-10 Cost vs. Value Report

Falling home prices have pushed the value of remodeling investments down, but small-scale projects and replacements may be leading the way to recovery. Read more

Mortgage Mess

If the neighbors are underwater, how to keep your clients high and dry. Read more

Cost vs. Value: For Appraisals, Don't Bet on Bling

New appraisal laws and decreased home values are diminishing the appraised value of many home improvements and the perceived return on investment of higher-end improvements in particular. Read more

Project Costs Hold Steady

In a tough economy with consumers putting projects on hold or downsizing project scope, remodelers are having to rework all aspects of their business to keep projects competitively priced. Read more

When It Comes to Home Improvement, Curb Appeal Is King

Eight of the top 10 Cost vs. Value projects in 2009-10 involve the outside of the home. Hereís why. Read more

Kitchens and Baths Still Offer Strong Value

In a down economy, homeowners are cautious about remodeling, but they realize that kitchens and baths are still good investments. Read more

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