Get at least three written estimates Get references and call to check on the work. If possible, go by and visit earlier jobs. Check with the local Chamber of Commerce or Better Business Bureau for complaints. Be sure that the contract states exactly what is to be done and how change orders will be handled.…

Upgrading your home is always appealing, but which enhancements really get you a good return for your money when it’s time to sell? A 2002 survey by Remodeling Magazine and REALTOR® Magazine has the answer. To see the complete article, visit http://www.realtor.org/rmomag.nsf/pages/costvaluedec02 Project Amount You Recoup at Sale Average Cost Bathroom remodeling 91 percent $22,639…

The answers to these questions will help you decide: How much equity do you have in your home? Look at your annual mortgage statement or call your lender to find out. Usually, you don’t build up much equity in the first few years of paying a mortgage, but if you’ve owned your home for a…

When you sell a stock, you owe taxes on your gain—the difference between what you paid for the stock and what you sold it for. The same is true with selling a home (or a second home), but there are some special considerations. How to Calculate Gain In real estate, capital gains are based not…