http://www.househacker.com/ househacker/tags/improvement
Link: CNN Money: 4 renovations that kill a home's value

Previously: Best Bang for the Buck Home Remodelling Jobs, Best Return on Investment Home Improvement Tips

]]> http://www.househacker.com/permanent/Renovations-that-Kill-Home-Value DIY concrete countertop project, although that might not be the case once one becomes more acquainted with both jobs, but it does explain why kitchen work can be so costly.]]> http://www.househacker.com/permanent/DIY-Kitchen-Countertop arch kits we've seen, this one by Creative Corners looks like it may be the easiest to install, at least judging by the quick four step process outlined on their site. The company lists four arch sets, three of which come in two corner pieces, and the forth being a full, one piece arch. ]]> http://www.househacker.com/permanent/Another-Doorway-Arch-Kit before, doorway arch kits seem like an easy way to make a doorway look a lot less cookie cutter while adding some extra character to your home. Although, as easy as the Insta Arch kit may be to install, the 15 minutes that the company is claiming it takes to do the job seems like a bit of a stretch, especially if you've seen their pictorial step-by-step instructions. That's not to imply that the installation would be difficult, but for a first time installer, 15 minutes seems a little optimistic, to say the least. ]]> http://www.househacker.com/permanent/Doorway-Arch-Kit-by-Insta-Arch jasongraphix.com went through to achieve a clean, popcorn free look. Also, something interesting - and scary, as Jason notes:

Asbestos was used in some sprayed coatings for ceilings from 1935-1978 and can cause Mesothelioma & Asbestosis. It's a good idea to have a sample tested by an NVLAP approved testing center before getting started.

]]> http://www.househacker.com/permanent/Remove-your-Popcorn-Ceiling CathyMoore.com shows you how to stain concrete on the cheap. After some initial testing, trial and error, her floor seems to turn out very warm and inviting (and professional). The procedure seems relatively straight forward, although it looks as though there is definitely room for mistakes or misplaced mop strokes. This informative site, Decorative Concrete, says that the age of the concrete is not an issue, but the concrete's condition is. They also go on to caution:

Also remember this is an acid. PROTECT yourself from accidental splashes, spills and fumes. I like to have a 5-gallon bucket of water close by should I need to neutralize myself or anything else. Protect vegetation and other concrete surfaces. Don't inhale the fumes from the concentrate or your mixed solutions.

Also check out their gallery of possibilities.]]> http://www.househacker.com/permanent/Concrete-Floor-Staining-HowTo site has many videos such as this on a wide range of home renovation subjects. If you are considering laying ceramic tile, you may be interested in underfloor heating. Warmly Yours offers an online flash app to aid you in estimating the cost of an underfloor heating system.]]> http://www.househacker.com/permanent/Great-Video-HowTo-on-Laying-Ceramic-Tile-in-the-Bathroom CurveMakers.com offers these clever doorway arch kits. Modern homes are rarely built with doorway arches, which were much more common in the past. Arches offer so much character but usually require some significant renovation dollars. These kits, which are reasonably priced, allow any standard doorway to be made to look more elegant and unique. Very nice.]]> http://www.househacker.com/permanent/Cool-Doorway-Arch-Kit