Sweat Equity

Reconfiguring storage and creating a cozy sitting area with a fireplace add value to a master bedroom.

A backyard gets updates with a maintenance-free deck, water feature and more.

A couple wants to add an exercise room and fourth bedroom in the basement of their 1960s rambler to provide much-needed space for their family as well as add to the home's value.

Cedar shakes, a splash of paint and a front yard patio add to a home's desirability and marketability.

Kelli and Steve have owned their home for 14 years and have customized it into their dream home. Their newly finished basement lacks a bathroom, though, and they're concerned about not getting a return on their investment.

Andy and Sally have put plenty of sweat equity into their home already, including painting, adding a deck, redoing a bathroom and finishing an office. Their kitchen is where they'll put their next chunk of change and sweat.

Mike bought his grandmother's fully furnished town home and is ready to make smart updates.

When they were expecting a baby two years ago, Christine and Sean moved into their suburban split-level with a lot more space. They have worked hard to remove the '80s style, but the main bathroom needs more help.

Justin and Kristin want to expand their living space into the basement. But what they want, what they can afford, and what their neighborhood supports are three different things.

Jeff and Emily have completed a lot of projects in their 1960s rambler, and they're ready to move on to the kitchen.

Dan and LeAnn moved into their ranch-style house four weeks ago and have been working on cosmetics fixes ever since. Now they're ready to move on to a bigger project, turning the hideous family room into a game room.

Andrea and John purchased their Cape Cod home just last year. It had great bones, but everything needed updating. They tackled most of the to-do list, but renovating the upstairs bathroom and opening the stairway remains.

When Merry and Joe first saw their home, they weren't crazy about it. The lower level gives a strange first impression. They're ready to turn their bland entry and log cabin room into an inviting lounge area.