Page 26 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • March 23, 2011 ����������������������������� Is your home-renovation project really worth doing? - you should consider two important questions: How will you fund your project? Perhaps more importantly, will it be worth it in the end? A little research and credit self-assessment can answer both questions. In addition to pulling your credit report to see how likely you are to qualify for good loan terms, you should consider the potential resale value of the improvement, how it will improve your life, and if it will enhance your enjoyment of your home. Fortunately, it’s not difficult to evaluate the potential resale value. Kitchen and bathroom remodels, adding a deck, or finishing a basement or attic are all popular renovations because they upgrade the most-used rooms in the house or add living space. In terms of resale value, here are some popular projects with high paybacks, according to Remodeling Magazine’s 2009-2010 Cost versus Value Report: adding an attic bedroom, 83.1 percent; adding a wooden deck, 80.6 percent; minor kitchen remodel, 78.3 percent; major kitchen remodel, 72.1 percent; basement remodel, 75.4 percent; and bathroom remodel, 71 percent. Keep in mind that smaller remodels, which cost less than major jobs, can still have a significant impact on how your home looks and feels. For example, simply replacing that old front door with a steel version can cost around $1,000, but offers a return on investment of nearly 129 percent, according to the report. Another factor to consider when weighing the value of any remodeling project is how it will affect your quality of life in terms of financial security. It’s important to be sure the cost of the project won’t be a financial burden that detracts from your enjoyment of the results. To help understand your current credit status and how it might affect your remodeling loan terms, obtain a copy of your credit report. Obtaining your credit report and monitoring your credit can help you identify any inaccuracies or errors that might lead to higher interest rates, and you’ll be able to catch and resolve potential fraud quickly. Experts agree that remodeling projects will likely remain popular as homeowners continue to stay put in a still-sluggish real estate market. With some careful planning, budgeting, research, and credit insight, you can ensure you reap the most financial and personal value for whatever renovation you decide to undertake. 3-2-11 karen/janine watched one too (ARA) Maybe you’ve many home improvement shows. Perhaps HomeImpDecBanner6x you’re still stinging from that holiday 6 x .75” guest’s comment about how your kitchen countertop has seen better days. Then again, 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 NEED MULCH? Hardwood • Hemlock Cedar • Oak Colored: Black, Brown, Red Top Soil • Compost Decorative Stone Pruning • Yard Clean Up Small Plantings Installation • Free Estimates • Wholesale and Retail JB Landscaping Residential & Commercial Landscaping • Paver Patios • Weekly Lawn Maintenance • Retaining Walls • Spring Clean-ups • Natural Stone Walls • Shrub & Tree Trimming • Decorative Stone & Mulch • Seeding & Sodding RVH MULCH SUPPLY • WYCKOFF, NJ We accept Credit Cards HIC# 13VH05854900 201-891-7100 Call for a FREE Estimate 201-934-3444 ready • set • GROW! NJHIL# 13VH05853600 / Fully Insured TRIPLE A HOME IMPROVEMENTS GENERAL CONTRACTOR 3-9-11 joan/janine JBLandscaping3x3Color(3-9-11) 3 x 3” Rev2 3-24-11 Pat/Janine RVHMulchColor3x3(3-23-11) 3 x 3” Caring for outstanding gardens for over 23 years ONE SOURCE FOR ALL YOUR LANDSCAPE NEEDS SPRING IS HERE! ... START THE SEASON’S “TO-DO LIST” AND SAVE SOME GREEN! SAVE 20% Off Spring Cleanup 2 Free fertilizer applications. New customers only. Roofing • Siding • Painting • Kitchen Bathroom & Basement Renovation Residential & Commercial 201-444-3097 • Cell: 201-674-0725 New Customer Discount - 15% OFF Free Estimates Licensed Contractor TRUST YOUR OUTDOOR LIVING SPACES TO OUR FULL SERVICE MAINTENANCE, CONSTRUCTION, AND DESIGN COMPANY WITH ORGANIC LAWN AND TREE CARE, IRRIGATION AND LIGHTING. COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL INSURED BONDED MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR LEISURE TIME CALL FOR FREE CONSULTATION 201-447-LAWN (5296) www.landscapeworks.net Member N.J.L.C.A & N.J. Turf Grass Assoc. Home Improvement Contractor #13V01991900