DIY Network

Front Exterior Upgrade: Final Tally For this Sweat Equity boost, we concentrate on the outdoors: a new patio, walkway and siding. See more value-enhancing projects from Sweat Equity. From "Sweat Equity" episode DSEQ-304

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Homeowners Deb and Jerry purchased their home for its great location but, compared to the rest of the unique and well-manicured homes in their neighborhood, it just didn't make the cut. With a budget of $20,000, they undertook a Sweat Equity makeover to upgrade their bland exterior.

Specific projects included painting the stucco, creating a patio, replacing the siding and garage doors and adding landscaping. Deb and Harry opted to hire a professional to spray paint the exterior stucco, then they dug in with the patio and walkway installation and siding replacement.

With all the repairs and replacements completed, the focus turned to the landscaping. Sod, trees, plants and a rock garden were added to augment the new patio and freshened up exterior.

Deb and Jerry managed to come in under budget and make a huge profit. And they can't wait to begin utilizing their new space.

Here's the dollar breakdown:

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Final Tally:

pavers $6,500
labor/misc. $3,200
painting$3,000
cedar shakes $2,200
garage doors $1,600
plants $1,500

TOTAL = $18,000

realtor's estimated value increase = $50,000
total cost of material = $18,000

net return on investment = $32,000

Sweat Equity Tip: Make sure you have contingency money in your budget. No matter how well you plan, you are almost guaranteed to run into some surprises.

RESOURCES :

pavers — Borgert Products
Website: www.borgertproducts.com

cedar shakes — ABC Supply Co.
Website: www.abcsupply.com

garage doors — Automatic Garage Door & Fireplace
Website: www.automaticgaragedoor.com