Home Improvement

(ARA) - It's the time of year when thoughts turn toward refeathering the nest. With more people choosing to stay in their houses, the desire to make "home" more desirable is stronger than ever.

Most people are forgoing major renovation projects due to the economy, according to a poll of top builders and developers taken by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) for CBS Watch.com. However, that doesn't mean everyone is satisfied with status quo.

There is a new trend among homeowners to opt for a room refresh in lieu of a major renovation. Smaller projects such as updating flooring and wall color make a difference and won't break the budget.

(ARA) - Homeowners renovate for two basic reasons: money and fun. Or, more precisely, they undertake home improvements to improve their home's resale value or their enjoyment of their house. The best home improvements, however, are ones that deliver on both objectives.

Americans will spend nearly $141 billion on remodeling in the first half of this year, according to Harvard's Joint Center for Housing Studies. If you'll be among the many homeowners opting to improve, rather than move, you may be wondering what renovations are likely to give you the best balance of enhanced resale value and immediate enjoyment.

Here are five home improvements - from budget-friendly to big budget - that provide noteworthy return on investment (ROI) in terms of increased value and improved enjoyment:

(ARA) - With more and more people staying put in their homes, homeowners have realized the importance of creating a space that is meaningful to them and their families.

Heirlooms and vacation tchotchkes are no longer hidden in closets and cupboards, but rather displayed to tell a story. Paired with the onset of do-it-yourself programs aimed at instilling design confidence in all, this new zeal is leading everyone to stop asking, "How does this look to you?" and start asking "What does this say about me?"
 
Adding personality to a space shouldn't be a difficult task. Look in your closet, jewelry box or to your favorite home accessories to get a sense of which styles and colors attract you the most. If you're getting mixed signals because you love your sleek black suit as much as your vintage watch, don't worry. There is nothing wrong with mixing and matching styles. Just ensure you tie your design together with one cohesive element, such as a common color.

(ARA) - Maybe you've watched one too many home improvement shows. Perhaps you're still stinging from that holiday guest's comment about how your kitchen countertop has seen better days. Or maybe you're just really tired of the same old, same old every day.

Whatever the reason the remodeling itch has settled into your brain, before you bring in a contractor - or pick up a hammer - you should consider two important questions: How will you fund your project? And will it be worth it in the end?