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Ranch-Home Expansion, Pt. 4: Value Boosts and Final Tally A '60s-era ranch-style home gets upgraded with a bedroom remodel, new closet and bath. Check out more value-enhancing projects from Sweat Equity. From "Sweat Equity" episode DSEQ-211

Although Steve and Kim came under budget in the master suite, their entire house renovation went $6,000 over budget, spending the most in the kitchen. In the end, by doing most of the work themselves, they made nearly $20,000 in equity.

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	Figure A
	Figure B

Value Tips: Adding Master Suite

The Busheff's unique house and open floor plan allowed them to extend their floor into the atrium and add square footage to their bedroom without taking it away from the house. To extend the floor, Steve hired a professional, costing him $500, but by adding square footage to the master bedroom he was able to cover his expense in equity earned.

Among homeowner's biggest complaints is not having enough storage space. By building a new, larger closet, Steve and Kim know they will not have this problem and future homeowners will appreciate the improvement too (figure A).

Spa baths are essential for master suites these days. By adding a steam shower, designer vanities and a jetted tub, the Busheffs give their bath a spa-feel (figure B). And Kim's attention to detail and design skills add to the Mediterranean feel and by doing the work themselves, they save thousands on a high-end look.

Final Tally:

master suite = $5,600
dining room = $6,000
landscaping = $5,400
driveway = $7,000
basement = $12,000
kitchen = $24,000
misc. = $6,000

TOTAL = $66,000

realtor's estimated value increase = $83,000

total cost of material = $66,000

net return on investment = $17,000

RESOURCES :

Resources for Sweat Equity, episode 211:

contractor: Maurice Ugarte

The Window Store
Website: www.thewindowstore.com

Home Decorators
Website: www.homedecorators.com

Woodlist Inc.
Website: www.woodlist.com

Kirkland's Home
Website: www.kirklands.com