The detector(s) must be installed in all homes with a fuel-fired heater ar appliance, a fireplace (both wood burning & gas log), or an attached garage.  Additionally, a CO detector must be installed within 15 feet of the entrance to each room lawfully used for sleeping.   The installation may be at ceiling height as well as pluged in above a baseboard.  All hardwired and plug-in detectors should have a battery backup.

CO detectors are a great idea, but I’m sure more lives are saved by smoke alarms, that ironically are not required for a real estate sale.

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The full 2008-2009 report will be available in December, but here are some early observations. Like last year’s report exterior remodeling projects lead the pack for recovery on dollars spent.  In fact those projects that boost curb appeal give you the greatest chance for recouping money spent, and still compare well with kitchen remodels.

From a national level here is what you can expect, showing expected recovery:

·        Upscale fiber cement siding (86.7%)

·        Midrange wood deck (81.8%)

·        Midrange vinyl siding (80.7%)

·        Upscale foam backed vinyl siding (80.4%)

·        Midscale minor kitchen remodel (79.5%)

·        Upscale vinyl window replacement (79.2%)

·        Midrange wood window replacement (77.7%)

·        Midrange vinyl window replacement (77.2%)

·        Upscale wood window replacement (76.5%)

·        Midrange major kitchen remodel (76.0%)

Home owners often wonder where their money will be safest during a sour financial market and as it has always been, investing in your home always pays off!  These numbers reflect a payback upon sale one year after the remodel, and are only averages. If you provide most of your labor the recovery will be even stronger

Many regions, the west coast in particular, often see recovery greater than 100%, while on the flip side Midwestern cities such as Cleveland, Chicago, and Milwaukee have some of the lowest recovery numbers.

Does it make sense to perform a major remodel just prior to a home sale?  Depends.  If the cost recovery is less than 100%, not really.  If your work will actually produce a gain, or a sale at a reasonable price is being hampered due to the lack of the project, then it may be to your advantage to proceed.  Your best direction is to always consult a Realtor to assist with which path to take.

Jerry Hart                                                                  Check out Denver Real Estate here