1. Finish Unused Space

Do you have an unfinished basement or attic space? Add a home theater, game room, or guest suite, increasing the heated square footage of your home without adding on an extension.

2. Remodel the Kitchen

Updating your kitchen is a long-term investment. You'll be paid back in 1 month or 5 years down the road. Even small changes such as new appliances, cabinet hardware, paint, and lighting can increase the value of your home.

3. Upgrade or Add a Bathroom

The number of bathrooms in a home helps make the sale. Upgrade your current space with new fixtures, flooring and lighting. Or add on a whole new bathroom in a large bedroom or bonus room.

4. Add a Home Office

Whether you work from home or just enjoy having separate space for computers and hardware, a home office can increase your home's value and make it more appealing for potential buyers. Add built-in bookcases, desks and structured wiring to create a state-of-the-art space.

5. Refresh or Add a Family Room or Sunroom

If your home doesn't have the popular "open floorplan", you can create one by adding on a Family room or Sunroom to the main floor. Or update the one you have with fresh paint, flooring and lighting. Add built-in bookcases and media niches to house your audio and video equipment.

6. Landscape the yard

Add a water feature, bright flowers, or shrubs to spiff of the exterior. If your area is undergoing a drought, consider planting native plants that thrive in sunny, dry weather.

7. Replace the roof

Make a great first impression with architectural shingles. 25 or 30 year warranty shingles are a great selling feature.

8. Replace old windows

30% of a home's energy goes right out the window. Save money on energy bills with energy-efficient ones.

9. Fresh paint!

Update your home with fresh colors. Remember to go neutral if you are considering selling your home.