Thanks to all. I didn't expect this much feedback, and certainly not so quickly.



I understand that some of the work I am planning to do would be considered "maintenance," as opposed to value added improvements. For example, a new roof, while it will look better and may offer some peace of mind to a prospective buyer, does not increase the actual value of a home (or so I have been told). Same thing with the windows (unless I were planning to install some super fancy wooden jobs or something). I assume those items would be valued at something approaching $10K (if I paid for installation). If I do take the plunge, I will probably install the windows myself (saving $2K-$3K?), but I think I would rather pay someone to put the roof on. I actually did some roofing work when I was 16, but I have since apparently developed a fear of heights that I never had in those days. Even sweeping out moss on Saturday made me feel more nervous than I should for any extended period of time. So perhaps I would only be giving up something like $5K in equity on the transaction, but when making financial decisions, I tend to err on the side of the worst case, so I have estimated $10K. If I am making false assumptions here, please feel free to straighten me out (I love being wrong about things I fear).

SW: I will send a PM with some financial details shortly. I don't think I would be exposing anything too significant by posting them here, but to your point, it may not be the safest thing to do.

Thanks again!