DIY Network

Home Theater: Value Boosts and Final Tally Home Theater: Value Boosts and Final Tally From "Sweat Equity" episode DSEQ-108

Ron and Dawn dramatically transformed their basement from one large outdated space to two very functional and modern rooms — an office and a state-of-the-art home theater. Ron and Dawn made smart purchases but they spared no expense when it came to technology and they ended up over budget. Even with a small loss in net return, a $25,000 gain in equity made the project worth the price of admission.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

Sweat Equity’s Adding Home Theater Value Tips:

• In a high value house like the Watson’s an outdated room can bring down the value (figure A). A simple update of the space can return an instant boost in equity. And the Watson’s new rooms really bring this basement back from the past (figure B).

• Unlike a kitchen, home theaters don’t always generate a return on an investment, so when deciding where to focus your funds, choose wisely. By doing the extra work themselves, Ron and Dawn were able to cut the cost of the renovation by about half (figure C). The Watson’s located discounted electronics and had professionals plan the space and install their equipment.

• A state-of-the-art home theater can be deflated in an instant with a light leak, bad sound or a stretched picture. Place speakers for balanced sound (figure D) and calibrate your television or projector for optimum picture.

• To finish their home theater, the Watson’s paid close attention to the details. Theater curtains, movie-themed light fixtures, movie posters, a popcorn machine and stadium seating are all simple accessories that add additional value to the space. Choosing a dark room is ideal. The Watson’s dark blue paint, dimmer lights and professional installations keep the movie the center of attention.

Final Tally:

Equipment = $17,150
Carpet = $1,767
Drywall = $2,400
Supplies = $2,827
Seating = $1,629
Novelties = $1,487
Lumber = $722
Electrical = $700

TOTAL = $28,682

REALTOR’S ESTIMATED VALUE INCREASE = $25,000

TOTAL COST OF MATERIAL = $28,682

NET RETURN ON INVESTMENT = loss of $3,682

RESOURCES :

Handyman Matters
Website: www.handymanmatters.com

Home Theater Marketplace
Website: HTmarket.com

GUESTS :

Adam Berlin
General Contractor
Maverick Home Remodeling Inc.
Website: www.RenewTheHome.com

Ben VanFossen
Audio Video Specialties LLC
Website: www.avsofdenver.com

Ash Hampshire
Audio Video Specialties LLC
Website: www.avsofdenver.com