Hello.

As your Real Estate Consultant, I keep you updated on how best to invest your home improvement dollars. According to the 2019 Cost Vs. Value Report for the Seattle area, these are the top 5 updates that you can make to your home that will bring the highest return on investment. Of course, I have my own professional opinion on each of these items.

1. Minor Kitchen Remodel (Midrange)

Job cost: $25,322 Resale value: $24,592 Cost Recouped: 97.1%

In functional but dated 200-square-foot kitchen with 30 linear feet of cabinetry and countertops, leave cabinet boxes in place but replace fronts with new shaker-style wood panels and drawer fronts, including new hardware. Replace cooktop/oven range and slide-in refrigerator with new energy-efficient models. Replace laminate countertops; install mid-priced sink and faucet. Add new resilient flooring. Finish with painted walls, trim, and ceiling.

In my opinion… A minor kitchen remodel can make a MAJOR return. I have a plethora of resources to help you with this. I also know what most buyers are looking for!

2. Manufactured stone veneer

Job cost: $9,432 Resale value: $10,996 Cost Recouped: 116.6%

Remove a 300 square-foot continuous band of existing vinyl siding from the bottom third of the street-facing façade, beginning at the garage, continuing around the main entry, and ending at the corner of the side addition. Replace with adhered manufactured stone veneer, including 36 linear feet (LF) of sills, 40 LF of corners, and 1 address block. Installation includes 2 separate layers of water resistive barrier laid over bare sheathing, corrosion resistant lath and fasteners, and nominal ½-inch-thick mortar scratch coat and setting bed. Outline the archway using an 8x10-inch keystone and a soldier course of flats on either side.

In my opinion… This depends on the style of your home and those that surround it. It’s a lot of “bang for your buck”, particularly if you have cookie cutter new construction, or a basic rambler.

3. Garage door replacement

Job cost: $3,806 Resale value: $5,825 Cost Recouped: 153.1%

Remove and dispose of existing 16x7-foot garage door and tracks. Install new 4-section garage door on new galvanized steel tracks; reuse existing motorized opener. New door is uninsulated, single-layer, embossed steel with two coats of baked-on paint, galvanized steel hinges, and nylon rollers. 10-year limited warranty.

In my opinion… This depends on several things: (1) Is the garage door facing the street and part of your home’s curb appeal? (2) Is it broken, malfunctioning or allowing water intrusion? If your answer to either of these questions are “yes”, I agree with this.

4. Entry door replacement (steel)

Job cost: $2,009 Resale value: $1,905 Cost Recouped: 94.8%

Remove existing 3-0/6-8 entry door and jambs and replace with fiberglass door with simulated wood grain, stained same color both sides; dual-pane, decorative half-glass panel with zinc caning; PVC-wrapped exterior trim in color to match existing trim; 2.5-inch interior colonial or ranch casings in hardwood stained to match door. Replace existing lockset with mortise lock with lever handle and integrated deadbolt in oil-rubbed bronze or satin-nickel finish.

In my opinion… Replacing an ugly or tired front door is always a good idea. If it is a beautiful craftsman, it needs a wood door may be a better investment than steel. It is difficult to put a number on curb appeal, but when selling, it is invaluable.

5. Window replacement (vinyl)

Job cost: $18,231 Resale value: $16,548 Cost Recouped: 90.8%

Replace 10 existing 3-by-5-foot double-hung windows with insulated, low-E, simulated-divided-lite vinyl windows. Simulated wood-grain interior finish; custom-color exterior finish. Trim exterior to match existing; do not disturb existing interior trim.

In my opinion… YES! Replacing single paned or failing windows is a smart investment. As with any remodel/update, make sure that the choice of window quality and style reflects the original style of your home and is in sync with your other updates.

In addition to these statistics, I can help you find the professionals necessary for your remodel or update projects!

If you would like the full Cost Vs. Value Report, I have it available in either print or electronic format. I am always happy to discuss any potential projects you are considering. Just give me a call!

Your Friend in Real Estate,

Tara Farquhar

Real Estate Consultant, Lake & Company Real Estate Inc.

(206) 713-0041 | tara@lakere.com