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Whether remodeling will be a wise investment depends largely on what you renovate and to what extent.
Smaller projects pay back better, according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2019 Cost vs. Value Report. For example, replacing your front door at a cost of about $1,800 can yield an average return of 74.9% when you sell the home. Major makeovers recoup considerably less.
The report looks at national average costs for 22 projects, including how well they recoup value at resale. Some are “upscale” jobs; others are “midrange” in cost. None totally recover their cost.
Money is just one way to measure an outcome, of course. Many upgrades pay off in satisfaction and enjoyment.
Here, from bad to worst, are projects that are particularly poor choices for payback, based on Remodeling Magazine’s report.