Spend some time thinking about your property and the market. What extra features would be a good investment, enhancing the value of the property and making it more enticing to potential buyers? Think of features that will help you compete with other sellers and that will raise the property value by more than the amount it would take to add the feature.

Fireplace Maintenance and Additions

If the house has a fireplace, make sure it's in good working order. Consider adding gas logs or a freestanding decorative gas stove to homes without a fireplace if they're popular in your area. Both types of units are available as vented and vent free appliances.

Vented gas logs burn with a realistic-looking yellow flame. They require a chimney that's in good working order so that deadly carbon monoxide gas and other byproducts of combustion are whisked to the outside.

Vent-free gas logs do not require a chimney. They burn with a hot blue flame that is designed to eliminate carbon monoxide gas. They should be burned for short periods and closely monitored for safety. Vent-free gas logs are illegal in some areas. Consider installing carbon monoxide detectors if the house has any type of fireplace, especially if the property will be a rental.

Sunrooms and Decks

A new sunroom or decking that overlooks a nice view or tranquil setting can pay for itself. Existing porches that are in good condition can sometimes be turned into sunrooms with less expense than starting from scratch. If the view from a new sunroom or deck wouldn't be desirable, consider putting your money into other areas where view doesn't matter, such as a well-designed family room.

Laminate Flooring

Laminate flooring is a popular, machine-made product that is attractive, durable, and less expensive than wood flooring. Laminate is an excellent alternative for locations where you want the look of wood but where the price or location prohibits it. It can be installed on top of concrete, even in a basement where high humidity prevents wood from being used.