150% REMODELED KITCHEN A kitchen update can be very profitable. Be careful not to splurge. Keep it simple.

100% LANDSCAPING -A nice lawn with a colorful flower bed will provide "curb appeal." The few hundred dollars invested may yield several thousands in profit.

100% FIREPLACE-A good investment, especially if it's energy-efficient, such as a gas-powered model.

90% SECOND BATH- This is not seen as an "extra" anymore, but a must have for buyers.

80% ROOM ADDITION-For the most out of your investment dollars, this should be either a family room or a third bedroom.

75% REMODELED BATH-A master bath is big among buyers now, so put your money here. If there's only one bath, install two sinks or a double vanity to handle the family's morning routine.

70% MASTER SUITE-To keep costs down, try to find extra space if you're interested in this improvement. By ombining existing rooms and spaces, you'll eliminate the major structural work that can diminish your return.

70% DECK-A deck provides a place for entertainment and family time, which is popular among today's buyers.

50% EXTERIOR PAINT or VINYL SIDING Adding or replacing siding and painting the trim can make your house look almost new again.

50% FINISHED ATTIC Expect more from your investment if the renovation does not take away from the looks of your home. This improvement adds more if it adds an extra bedroom in a small house.

40% FINISHED BASEMENT This improvement provides additional living space without a costly addition. If the basement has an access door from the outside, the project becomes more valuable.

40% HEATING SYSTEM Replace it only if your old system doesn't work. Depending on what your buyer's interests are, a new energy-efficient furnace may or may not be a selling point.

35% NEW WINDOWS AND DOORS Buyers appreciate changes that update the look of a house. Energy-efficient windows can add a lot of resale.

30% GARAGE-Its value increases if you are in a part of the country with a harsh climate.

?% SWIMMING POOL- Depending on where you are in the country, this luxury item may or may not affect resale profit.

?% SKYLIGHT OR ROOF WINDOW It's hard to estimate how this renovation may affect profit upon resale. Consider how an operable skylight or roof window may improve an area that is otherwise dark or under ventilated.