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4. Window Dressing

Today's vinyl, clad and wood windows are not only beautiful, they're energy efficient and can cut your heating and cooling bills.

Getting 10 new 3' x 5' vinyl replacement windows runs about $11,000. On average nationally, you'll get back about $8,100 when you sell, a recoup rate of nearly 77 percent, the CVR finds.

If you have an upscale home, buy upscale replacement windows. Nationally, 10 high-end wood windows will cost $17,500, which will earn back $13,500 at resale, or about 77 percent. Compare the cost of different types of windows with the Efficient Windows Collaborative window selection tool.

More Smart Home Updates:

1. Spruce up or replace your siding.
2. Add a deck.
3. Tweak your kitchen.
4. Repair or replace windows.
5. Overhaul your kitchen.
6. Strip the bathroom.
7. Find cash in the attic.
8. Earn bucks from the basement.
9. Add space to add value.
10. Add low-cost landscaping.