Sweat Equity

Mike and Leslee Koob have a large collection of wine currently being stored in a pile of boxes. They'd like to create an organized space for the collection and add value to their home at the same time.

Per and Katherine took a gamble when they purchased an "as is" 1970s walk-out rambler. They're hoping their $25,000 budget is big enough for their wish list to bring their backyard pool area up to date.

A man purchased his first home last year, and while it's in need of EVERYTHING, he wants to start updating the kitchen to increase the home's value. With the ambition and friends to help, his budget renovation will change the cabinets to the countertops.

Adam and Melissa closed on their four-level split home just six weeks before their wedding. They want to update the bathroom first because it doesn't have a shower and is stuck in the '80s.

Last year Girish built a very nice deck, but it leads to a bland backyard and the empty space looks ignored and deserted. Since his wife, Vaishalee, is a yoga instructor, she wants a Zen retreat in the backyard.

Alyese came across an 1877 Victorian with a double lot, two-car garage and solid bones, but everything else was in desperate shape. She jumped at the chance with high hopes and promises of help from her family and friends.

Ben and Jennie bought their 1973 home three years ago. Their lower level was considered finished when they purchased the home, but it was done poorly. They plan to update the space to include a master bedroom suite.

Shane and Janine waited for a year for the right house to go on the market in their neighborhood. So far they've transformed the interior of their 1952 home with a clean, contemporary style, and they'd like the same outdoors.

Ryan was thrilled to purchase his 1964 split level. On his to-do list is giving a contemporary makeover to the entryway. He's hoping the updated look will set the tone for the rest of the house and appeal to future buyers.

Zak and Tricia love their turn-of-the-century two-story home, but the "ivy" bathroom is something they can do without. The new, updated bathroom will have a contemporary flair with glass tile and a concrete sink.

Julia and George have spent the last two years taking down wallpaper and tearing carpet off the ceiling of their rundown Colonial. They've finished the inside and now need to turn their attention to the exterior.

When Jeff and Lisa bought their 1930s Tudor-style home, it needed plenty of TLC to bring it up to date. However, the kitchen needs more than cosmetics to bring them it to speed.

A young couple found a starter house where they could get in at a low price and hopefully add some sweat to boost their equity. With the backyard as the next item on their list, they plan to stretch their $12,000 budget and bring their yard up to par.