Every homeowner must pay for routine home maintenance, such as replacing old wiring or plumbing, or staining the deck, but some choose to make improvements with the intention of increasing the home's value. Certain projects such as adding a well thought-out family room - or other functional space - can be a wise investment, as they do add to the value of the home. Other projects, however, allow little opportunity to recover the costs when it's time to sell. Even though... [read more]