Take your time in deciding what improvements you'll make.
Step 1: Plan Your Remodel
Don't just start knocking walls down. Plan it out -- the fastest way to increase your home's value is to make upgrades intentionally, not on impulse. Home improvement projects cost about $0.20-0.25 on the dollar. The other $0.75-0.80 spent goes directly back into the home through increased value.
Start slowly. It's a marathon, not a sprint. List the things you want to change and the updates you would like to make. Don't worry about organization, just write it all down. Take a guess on how long you may want to live in the house. If you're planning on selling, talk to your real estate agent and make a selling plan.
Next, categorize your list by how much it may cost, including your time and money. Be realistic! It's OK to list an outdoor pool with a waterfall, but keep your financial picture in mind.
Look at your categorized list and prioritize what is a real "must-have" and what is more of a dream. Try to find a reasonable balance.
Once you have a plan, do research or talk to a real estate agent to see what sort of return those improvements may bring. Some improvements will add considerably more value to your home than others.
