Update

I have some exciting news...

I've joined a new full service brokerage called Cornerstone Real Estate Professionals. You can learn more about us at www.utahcornerstone.com. The company is based in Logan and has an office in Ogden as well. I am the first agent in the Salt Lake area. We hope to expand and have an office here soon! If you're an agent and interested in joining the team, let me know. I'll tell you all about it!

Post #1: First Impressions.

If you're thinking of selling and want to get the greatest return on the improvements you make in your home or if you're just in "nesting" mode like me, think about putting some money into the most noticeable part of your home...your front door! Often others first impression of your home, a nice front door is a welcome symbol to friends, family, and if your selling-potential buyers! It's not a big expense to paint or even replace a door and hardware...a new handle set goes a long way too!

An article from MSNBC said the same thing...

Want to get a 30 percent return on a home improvement project? Replace your front door.
Spend $1,000 on a steel door and you’ll get $1,290 back, according to Remodeling magazine’s most recent Cost vs. Value report. A steel door provides increased security and safety from extreme weather. And it can be stylish too, with custom colors and double-paned glass windows. It’s also the only project that pays back more than you put in.
That’s an important calculation for homeowners. A house is the largest financial asset for most Americans, and wise improvements can help boost value over time as well as quality of life. For those needing a quick sale, smaller, cheaper projects can help a home stand out.

I like this article! When I read it, I had to send it to my husband so he'd stop giving me a hard time about all the front doors he's painted, repaired, and replaced. If you're itching to do an improvement project, leave a comment and I'll give you some advice on where to purchase a good door and what to look for. I've found that the big box home improvement stores aren't always the best bet for this!